Clandestine Feelings

by Introvert995

Summary:

While recovering from Adam's Full-Swing Kiss in the hospital, Kaoru discovers something that he wasn't really meant to hear. Will it lead to anything, or should these feelings remain secret?

Or, Matchablossom from after episode 9 through the end of season one and beyond.

Notes:

This is my first time posting or really even finishing a fanfic, but the OVA announcement got me so excited that this was all I could think about and I decided I wanted to share it, so here it is. Feedback is welcome. I hope you enjoy it!

Update: Huge shout-out to my friend artsyspirit for beta reading and helping me with editing. Couldn’t have done it without you!

I also wanted to thank everyone for all the comments and kudos, I really appreciate it!

Chapter 1: The Confession(?)

 

 

“It doesn’t matter if you see me.”

“As always, your skating has no surprises…”

“We’re friends, aren’t we?”

“It’s overcalculated, so it can never transcend…”

“Kaoru! Oh C’mon, get up…”

“I trust you guys.”

“The reason I never responded to your challenges...”

“Kaoru, please-”

 

“…was because I simply find you boring…”

 

 

“I love you-“

Kaoru was too weak and disoriented to do anything other than lie there for a moment when he first woke up.

 

He slowly realized he was in a hospital room. It was dark. He felt strange… sort of dizzy and floaty… a bit nauseous… exhausted…

 

He glanced down at himself. He was covered in a thin hospital blanket, so he couldn’t glean much about his current state other than the fact that his right wrist was in a splint.

 

However, he did notice a very familiar figure, hunched over in an uncomfortable looking chair, green hair disheveled, head resting on the edge of Kaoru’s mattress, and holding Kaoru’s left hand as he slept…

 

Idiot… Kaoru thought to himself even as a pleasant warmth took root in his chest.

 

He knew how he ended up like this… even if he couldn’t actually remember… he remembered Adam drawing his card, Kojiro running over and telling him to be careful, the race starting… but anything after that was… blank.

 

He tried to move, to adjust his position ever so slightly, but even in his weird, numb state, pain flared in his head, his shoulders, his ankle-

 

He gasped and winced, closing his eyes and settling back down.

 

What did Adam do to him..?

 

“Kaoru..?”

 

Kaoru blinked slowly and turned his head just a bit.

 

Kojiro had lifted his head up and was staring at him. It was dark and Kaoru’s vision was fuzzy without his glasses, but he could tell just from Kojiro’s tone that he was worried.

 

Kaoru couldn’t quite find his voice, he wasn’t really sure what to say anyway, so he just squeezed Kojiro’s hand a bit.

 

“You’re awake.” Kojiro whispered, his voice thick with emotion. 

 

Kaoru huffed, fixing Kojiro with a glare.

 

“No shit-" he winced a bit at how awful he sounded, but pushed through, “-you dumb gorilla.”

 

Kojiro let out a shaky laugh and squeezed his hand tighter, bowing his head slightly. Was he crying? No…  He hadn’t seen Kojiro cry since they were kids…

 

“Don’t give me that, you scared the hell out of me, you asshole…”

 

Kaoru tried to roll his eyes, but quickly closed them and winced as a wave of nausea rolled over him.

 

Kojiro sighed. “Yeah. Don’t do that. You have a concussion, Princess…”

 

Kaoru blinked slowly. “What… happened..?”

 

Kojiro frowned. “You… don’t remember?”

 

Kaoru shook his head a bit. “Just… the race starting… then… nothing…”

 

Kojiro bit his lip. “I should go get your doctor, she’ll want to-”

 

Kaoru felt Kojiro start to let go and squeezed his hand tighter. 

 

It was quiet for a moment before Kojiro spoke up again.

 

“I’ll be right back-”

 

“Tell me…”

 

“I will. I just want to make sure you’re okay first-”

 

“Kojiro-”

 

“Just rest for now. Please.”

 

Kaoru hesitated, noticing the bags under Kojiro’s eyes. How long had he been here?

 

 Kaoru finally shook his head just a bit and let go. “You rest… Go home if you won’t… make yourself useful.”

 

Kojiro huffed. “Fine. But I’m getting your doctor first.”

 

“...Stubborn gorilla.” Kaoru muttered as he closed his eyes.

 

Kojiro sighed, but Kaoru could hear the smile in his voice when he spoke. “It’s good to have you back, Princess.”

 

Kaoru tried to stay awake after Kojiro left the room, but it was a losing battle.

 

…

 

Kaoru wasn’t sure how long he’d been sitting on the roof, staring down at the floor, his back against the wall.

 

All he knew was that his lunch period had probably ended a while ago… He wasn’t even trying to cut class, he just… couldn’t move…

 

Kojiro had needed to meet up with his classmates to work on some group project for one of the few classes they didn’t have together, so Kaoru had come up to their usual spot on the roof alone. 

 

That wasn’t a problem. He wasn’t so pathetic that he needed Kojiro by his side every second of every day. It was fine. 

 

But then he realized how quiet the roof was… that no one else was up there in their little corner… that he was alone… and it just… seemed to hit him out of nowhere…

 

Maybe it was because he was still on edge after arguing with his parents that morning before they left… maybe it was because he’d been busy and hadn’t been able to skate as much the last few days… Or maybe he was just that pathetic…

 

Whatever the reason, his chest felt painfully tight. His heart was pounding. But at the same time, everything was… numb.

 

He tried to reason with himself through the fog that had taken over his brain. Just get up. Go back inside. Go to class. That’s where everyone is now. Where Kojiro is. You’re being ridiculous…

 

But he remained locked in place, shivering, his knees drawn to his chest as other thoughts took over. He knew, somewhere beyond the fog, that they were completely illogical, but that didn’t stop them.

 

Kojiro is probably glad to be rid of you. There was probably no one else here because they saw you come up here. Kojiro is actually good at making friends, he’s probably forgotten all about you by now.

 

What if you’re stuck like this? How long will it take for someone to find you? Will anyone even bother to find you? Do you even want anyone to find you? This is so embarrassing, you’re so pathetic-

 

“There you are…”

 

The voice sounded far away… like he was hearing it underwater… but he still recognized it as Kojiro’s.

 

Still, Kaoru was frozen. He couldn’t even force himself to look up…

 

It got quiet. Had Kojiro left? Or maybe Kaoru was finally going fully insane, imagining things that weren’t there…

 

No… He could feel Kojiro’s presence right beside him now. And he was saying… something?

 

“-is my tie?”

 

“H-huh?”

 

“What color is my tie?”

 

Kaoru blinked, then huffed, the familiarity of Kojiro asking him stupid questions pulling him out of the fog more than the question itself. He slowly turned his head to look at Kojiro, frowning. 

 

“You… have eyes… idiot.”

 

Kojiro snorted. “Well, I’m asking you anyway. What color is it?”

 

Kaoru sighed shakily, still looking at him. “R-Red…”

 

“Mhm. What color is my shirt?”

 

“White.”

 

“What about my hair?”

 

“Green… like… a swamp.”

 

Kojiro elbowed him gently, smiling despite the insult. “There he is.”

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes, but sighed and let himself rest his head on Kojiro’s shoulder. He was still shaking, his heart still beating too fast. But he could move again. He wasn’t spiraling anymore. He wasn’t alone.

 

Kojiro gently put an arm around his shoulders and just started talking. About his group project, skating, cooking… It didn’t matter. Kojiro had helping Kaoru with his anxiety down to an art at this point and his voice was like a balm for the overwhelming dread that had built up in Kaoru’s chest.

 

Kaoru finally pulled away and sat up after a while. He was still shaking, but it was from exhaustion rather than fear. 

 

“You okay?” Kojiro asked softly.

 

“Y-Yeah.”

 

“What happened? Did someone-”

 

Kaoru shook his head. “No… just… my own brain… again… I'm fine.”

 

“Do you… want to talk about it?”

 

Kaoru scowled a bit. He would rather die than admit he’d had a panic attack just because he’d been left alone for one lunch period. Kojiro would tease him… or feel guilty about it… or both.

 

“No.”

 

Kojiro nodded, then stood and offered him a hand. “Do you need to go home? I think the nurse will totally buy that you’re sick…”

 

Kaoru scowled a bit at the barely disguised insult, but took Kojiro’s hand and let him pull him to his feet. 

 

“No… Home… Home would be worse,” he muttered, knowing his parents had left town for work that morning. Usually that was preferable to them being there, but… He felt the dread start to return at the thought of going back to his empty house-

 

“Okay. Let’s get to class, then. You can come over after school if you want.”

 

Kaoru nodded, too drained to put any effort into acting like that wasn’t exactly what he needed. 

 

…

 

The next time Kaoru woke up, he felt a little more normal, but he was in a lot more pain. He took a shaky breath, trying to steady himself, before opening his eyes.

 

It was light outside and the chair was empty, but Kaoru could just barely make out a figure standing by his bed out of the corner of his eye.

 

“Kojiro..?” he rasped.

 

A woman in scrubs stepped into his line of sight, offering him a kind, professional smile.

 

“Sorry, no. He went home to get some rest. He said he’d be back later tonight, though.”

 

Kaoru just nodded a bit, trying not to show his disappointment.

 

The nurse introduced herself, but Kaoru didn’t have it in him to even try to remember her name. 

 

She explained that he’d been in a coma for a couple days, he had a concussion, whiplash, a sprained wrist, and an ankle fracture that they’d already set.

 

She asked him a few simple questions, which he answered without a problem.

 

She nodded a bit as she took notes. “Very good. Now, your friend said you were skateboarding when this happened?”

 

Kaoru hesitated. How much had Kojiro told them?

 

“Yes… I… I don’t remember much about it, I’m afraid.” It really wasn’t a lie. He still didn’t remember the actual race.

 

She nodded. “Well, that’s to be expected. The memory may come back with time.”

 

“Did Koji- Did my friend tell you what happened?”

 

She nodded and glanced at her clipboard before speaking. “You were struck in the face while you were going downhill at very high speeds. Mr. Nanjo said you were attacked by a masked stranger with a skateboard...”

 

Kaoru blinked, then frowned a bit. “I… I see.”

 

She looked through the notes on her clipboard. “We expect you to fully recover, Mr. Sakurayashiki, but we want to keep you here for a few days, just to make sure there aren’t any complications. You’re very lucky the damage wasn’t more severe.”

 

Kaoru just nodded a bit, still trying to process what he just heard. 

 

Had Adam really done that to him? Or was that just the story Kojiro came up with? It seemed weirdly specific to be entirely made up…

 

“Oh. Please don’t be alarmed. Like I said, we expect you to fully recover. It’s just a precaution.”

 

Kaoru blinked. “R-Right… Thank you.” Kaoru said, the polite, friendly mask he used with clients just barely hanging on. “I’m sorry, I’m just… feeling rather tired all of a sudden.”

 

She nodded. “Of course. Try to get some rest. Press the button on the side of the bed if you need anything.” 

 

She turned to leave, then paused and turned back around, pointing at the nightstand. “Oh, your friend wanted to make sure you got that back. He seemed to think it might bring you some comfort.”

 

Kaoru turned his head to find his bracelet sitting on the nightstand, plugged into its charger. A bit scuffed and cracked, but still in one piece.

 

Kaoru felt tears start to well up in his eyes… Which he blamed entirely on the concussion and the painkillers running through his system.

 

 

 

Kaoru had grabbed his bracelet after the nurse left, simply holding it in his good hand. It was obvious someone had cleaned it and even tried to polish out the scratches.

 

More nurses came to check on him and bring him lunch, which he barely touched. 

 

He was pretty sure he drifted off a few times.

 

But all the while, he kept Carla close, debating if he should ask… the bracelet might not even work anymore-

 

He finally made up his mind later that evening.

 

“Carla?”

 

The bracelet just barely lit up, but Carla quickly responded, as usual. “Yes, master?”

 

“Did you manage to save the recording of the race?”

 

“Yes, master.” 

 

She paused, processing for a long while.

 

Maybe the bracelet was more damaged than it seemed.

 

“Would you like to listen to the recording?”

 

“…Yes, please.”

 

Kaoru listened as the start of the race was signaled, it was hard to hear much over the rushing wind, but he caught bits and pieces of his banter with Adam, and then-

 

“Adam… I suggest you don’t get too cocky,” he heard himself say.

 

It was barely audible in the recording, but he still heard Adam’s response.

 

“And don’t you be too optimistic…”

 

There was a loud crack followed by a thud, a second of high-pitched feedback, and then a constant crackle.

 

Kaoru winced a bit, not sure if people in the crowd were screaming or if it was just part of the static.

 

Kaoru was starting to think that the mic had been too damaged to pick up anything else, but then Adam’s voice cut through.

 

“As always your skating has no surprises. It’s overcalculated, so it can never transcend.”

 

Kaoru frowned.

 

“Let me teach you something. The reason I never responded to your challenges-”

 

Kaoru listened intently as the static returned for a second before Adam continued.

 

“-was because I simply find you boring.”

 

Kaoru just sat there for a moment, listening to the static. He closed his eyes tightly, biting his lip.

 

So that was it… after everything. Kaoru was wrong… it all really meant nothing to him. He meant nothing… He was hurt. A blow like that could have killed him. And Adam… Adam was taunting him.

 

A single tear rolled down his face before a new voice cut through the static.

 

“Kaoru!”

 

Kaoru blinked, hearing Kojiro panting over the recording.

 

“Oh c’mon, get up…”

 

Even with the less than stellar audio quality, Kaoru could tell he was worried… panicked even. It was a strange thing to hear, coming from his usually laid-back friend.

 

“You know, I really thought this would be more fun… but that little race against Cherry turned out to be a bomb.”

 

“Seriously..? You son of a bitch…”

 

Kaoru frowned a bit. True anger was also not something he often heard in Kojiro’s voice… sure, they bickered almost constantly, but they rarely actually got mad at each other…

 

What sounded like a car horn and distant shouting was just barely audible before Kaoru heard rustling and rushed footsteps.

 

“It’s okay. You’re gonna be okay… Just hang in there.”

 

There was the sound of a car door opening and closing, more rustling, tires screeching.

 

“Hey, C’mon…. C’mon, look at me…”  

 

Even with the bad audio quality, Kaoru could hear terror, but also so much gentleness in Kojiro’s voice. He wasn’t sure if he’d ever heard Kojiro sound like that before…

 

“ C’mon… wake up… Kaoru, please-“ Kojiro begged. His voice sounded strained, like he was holding back tears-

 

And then he was crying… quiet, gasping breaths that the mic just barely picked up.

 

Kaoru frowned a bit. He… shouldn’t listen to this.

 

“Carla-”

 

“I love you-”

 

Kaoru froze. 

 

The recording stopped. “Yes, master?”

 

Kaoru just sat there for a moment. There was no way. It was barely a whisper. He’d just heard it wrong…

 

“Go… Go back a few seconds… please.”

 

“Okay.”

 

Kaoru waited, then, so quiet that it was hard to hear-

 

“I love you, Kaoru…”

 

Kaoru just sat there in stunned silence for a moment, but then Kojiro continued, his voice shaky and quiet.

 

“I’ll stop being such a coward… I promise, I’ll… I’ll stop messing around… I’ll ask you out… I-I’ll take you back to Paris… or anywhere you want… I’ll finally tell you… Just… Just be okay… please…”

 

Kaoru just sat there, shocked, listening to audio of Kojiro quietly crying…

 

“C-Carla…”

 

The recording paused again. “Yes, master?”

 

“Send… Send wheelchair to current location,” he said, not even sure if it would work from so far away-

 

“Okay, master.”

 

He knew it was stupid. He didn’t care. He needed to get to Sia la Luce…

 

 

 

Chapter 2: Not Alone, At Least Not Yet

 

 

 

“Are you some kind of idiot? Who sneaks out of a hospital??”

 

“I’m fine, okay?” Kaoru growled. “It’s just a scratch…”

 

“Says the mummy who just crawled from the crypt…”

 

Kaoru moved the wheelchair over to the bar and held his head up a bit higher. “These are honorable wounds…” He smirked, then added, “not like you’d ever have the courage to fight Adam…”

 

Kojiro smacked his arm down on top of the bar, though not with nearly as much force as he usually would when they bickered.

 

“I woulda won…”

 

“Yeah, right… Even though you lost against a rookie?”

 

Kojiro backed off and crossed his arms. “You know that’s no ordinary rookie. I’m willing to bet he becomes more of a monster than Adam is…”

 

Kaoru frowned, closing his eyes for a moment. He certainly hoped that didn’t happen.

 

“You overestimate him… Adam’s a unique beast.”

 

Kaoru grabbed the bottle of wine on the bar and started to pour himself a glass, only to realize it was empty.

 

He looked back up at Kojiro, unamused.

 

“There’s nothing else in here.”

 

Kojiro leaned across the bar, frowning. “Well that’s because it’s BYOB now.”

 

“I’m injured you soulless pig!”

 

“And I’m supposed to care?”

 

Despite his words, Kojiro turned and headed to the back.

 

Kaoru huffed and rested his head on the bar.

 

So much for I’ll finally tell you…

 

He silently berated himself for actually thinking that Kojiro would confess if he came here. He had already failed to do so when Kaoru woke up earlier.

 

Kaoru wasn’t stupid. He knew there was… something between them. Something that was far more than just friendship. But that didn’t mean Kojiro ever intended to act on those feelings. 

 

And they were probably just that to Kojiro anyway… feelings. Something to be joked about and flirted around, but nothing more.

 

Kojiro liked women.  And he was certainly never shy about pursuing them . If Kojiro really wanted him in that way, he would just say so. And what reason would he have to truly love Kaoru, anyway? All Kaoru ever did was insult him and barge into his restaurant after hours.

 

Kojiro just hadn’t been thinking clearly that night. And now that Kaoru was fine, he’d come to his senses… That was all. Stress can make people do stupid things.

 

Kaoru closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He shouldn’t be upset. He shouldn’t have let himself hope in the first place. Shouldn’t have let these feelings resurface so easily. He’d always known it wasn’t possible.

 

It was only a matter of time, really. Kojiro would eventually get tired of his current lifestyle. Despite his playboy persona, Kaoru knew he was still a soft, caring romantic at heart. He’d find a very lucky woman who would be more than just a hookup one day. And this… thing they have, spending most of their free time together, skating at S almost every weekend, the constant bickering and teasing that bordered on flirting… it would all change… and Kaoru would be alone again.

…

Karou shivered a bit in the cool, early morning air as he skated down the sidewalk, but he didn’t really regret sneaking out in nothing but a thin tank top and a pair of sleep shorts. The chill was a welcome distraction.

 

He finally reached the house that was just as familiar to him as his own, maybe even moreso.

 

He picked up his board, walked around to the back yard, then quietly knocked on one of the windows, as he’d done probably over a hundred times before. 

 

He only had to wait a few seconds before the window was pulled up.

 

Kaoru handed off his skateboard before pulling himself inside.

 

“Hey…” Kojiro said, propping his board up against the wall.

 

Kaoru just sat on the windowsill for a moment, then took a deep breath before moving over to the bed.

 

Kojiro sat down beside him. “Are you okay..?”

 

Kaoru scowled a bit.

 

Kojiro sighed. “Sorry. Dumb question…”

 

Kaoru looked down at the floor. “He’s… probably heading to the airport by now.”

 

“Yeah…”

 

“He didn’t even-” Kaoru stopped, shaking his head. “I thought he’d at least-”

 

Kaoru bit his lip as tears started rolling down his face. “He didn’t even bother to break up with me.”

 

Kojiro hesitated for a second before speaking. “Maybe… Maybe he didn’t want to break up with you. You know how his family is, maybe they forced this-”

 

Kaoru let out a choked sob and shook his head.

 

“Kaoru? Hey, it’s-”

 

Kaoru handed him his phone, his messages with Adam still on the screen.

Cherry: Why didn’t you tell me about this sooner?

Cherry: Is your father making you do this?

Cherry: Baby please answer me I want to talk about it

Cherry: We can make it work

Cherry: I love you

 

Adam: I already explained earlier. Don’t call again.

Kojiro just stared at it for a moment. “Kaoru-”

 

“He blocked me… My calls went st-straight to v-voicemail after that…”

 

Kaoru hid his face in his hands and sobbed.

 

“Hey… C’mere.”

 

Kaoru let Kojiro pull him into a hug, burying his face in his shoulder.

 

Kojiro held him tightly. “It’s gonna be okay.”

 

Kaoru wasn’t sure how long they stayed like that, but he’d soaked Kojiro’s sleeve with tears and snot by the time he calmed down enough to speak again.

 

“I just… I don’t know what I did wrong.”

 

“You didn’t do anything wrong. He’s just an asshole.”

 

Kaoru scoffed. “How would you know? You weren’t there for everything.”

 

“No… but moving to another country and not even telling your boyfriend until the night before you leave is just a dick move, no matter what.”

 

Kaoru sniffled, but otherwise stayed quiet.

 

When he finally seemed to run out of tears to shed, he sighed and sat up straight. 

 

“...Your shirt is gross,” he muttered.

 

Kojiro huffed. “Yeah, who’s fault is that?”

 

“Yours.”

 

“What? How??” Kojiro exclaimed quietly.

 

“You let me cry on it…”

 

Kojiro rolled his eyes and got up to change. “Go wash your face. You look like a raccoon…”

 

Kaoru threw a pillow at him, but did as he was told.

 

When he returned from the bathroom, Kojiro was gone.

 

He didn’t have much time to question it though before Kojiro walked into the room with a glass of water and some sort of gross-looking sports drink. He offered both to Kaoru.

 

“Here. So you don’t get a headache.”

 

Kaoru took them, feeling a knot form in his chest all over again.

 

He drank a bit of both before placing them on the nightstand.

 

“You can stay if you want. You know mom won’t mind.”

 

Kaoru nodded before lying down on the side of the bed closest to the wall, burying his face in a pillow and letting out a heavy sigh.

 

Kojiro turned off the light before joining him.

 

Kaoru wrapped his arms tightly around his pillow as the silence stretched on and his brain got too loud-

 

“M’ gonna die alone.” He muttered.

 

He felt Kojiro shift next to him.

 

“What? Why- Don’t say that.”

 

“It’s true.”

 

“No it’s not.”

 

Kaoru opened his eyes and turned his head when he felt a hand on his shoulder.

 

“C’mon. You have me. You’re my best friend… you’ll always be my best friend. So as long as I’m around you’ll never be alone.”

 

Kaoru just stared at him for a moment, then huffed and hid his face in the pillow again. “You’re so cheesy…”

 

“You know you love it,” Kojiro teased

 

Kaoru shook his head a bit. “Go to sleep, you idiot.”

 

He was quiet for a while before adding, “Thanks.”

 

Kojiro just snored softly in response.

 

Kaoru blinked, then scowled a bit. He would always be jealous of Kojiro’s ability to simply fall asleep.

…

Kaoru must have drifted off at the bar, because the next thing he knew, he was being placed down on something soft.

 

“Goodnight, Kaoru… I-” 

 

He heard Kojiro let out a shaky sigh. “-I’m really glad you’re okay.” 

 

Kaoru felt Kojiro’s fingers gently stroking his hair, moving a loose strand out of his face.

 

He leaned into the touch a bit before slowly forcing his eyes open.

 

Kojiro blinked and froze in place. “Sorry, I… didn’t mean to wake you up.”

 

Kaoru reached up and grabbed Kojiro’s wrist. “Stay,” he barely whispered, fighting to stay awake.

 

“Kaoru… I’m-“

 

“Don’t… wanna be alone…” Kaoru couldn’t keep his eyes open anymore. He felt his grip on Kojiro loosening…

 

“ Please… ” 

 

Kojiro gently pulled his wrist free after a moment and carefully placed Kaoru’s hand down at his side. 

 

“Okay…Okay, just give me a minute.”

 

For a few seconds, Kaoru thought Kojiro had just said that to shut him up and left to sleep on the couch. Just as he was starting to accept it and let himself fall asleep, he felt the bed dip beside him. 

 

“Koji?”

 

“Yeah, I’m here.”

 

Kaoru relaxed.

 

“Kojiro… I-” he barely whispered, already starting to drift off again.

 

I love you too, you know…

 

He didn’t know how much he actually managed to say before falling asleep.

 

 

Chapter 3: Don't Be Too Optimistic

 

 

 

“Ugghhh…”

 

“You know, I hate to say I told you so…” Kojiro said as he carried Kaoru out of his room.

 

Kaoru growled a bit. His entire body ached, he felt nauseous, his head was killing him, and his ankle especially was throbbing painfully. All of which he had foolishly admitted to Kojiro before he was fully awake.

 

“No you don’t…”

 

Kojiro laughed, but it sounded a bit hollow. “No, I don’t. But you’re suffering enough, so I won’t.”

 

“How kind of you.”

 

“Yeah, I’m a real sweetheart. I’m guessing you’re not interested in breakfast?”

 

Kaoru hid his face against Kojiro’s shoulder. “Just take me downstairs, you idiot…” 

 

Kojiro sighed. “Okay, okay…”

Kaoru sighed when Kojiro finally reached the bottom of the stairs and his steps became less jarring.

 

“Just… put me-“

 

He frowned when he realized his wheelchair was no longer at the bar.

 

“Where’s-“

 

He paused when he finally noticed it, backed into a corner with two tables blocking it in.

 

“What the hell, you gorilla!? When did you even-“ Kaoru stopped, closing his eyes tightly as white hot pain flared in his skull.

 

Kojiro huffed. “You do not need to be strolling down the street with that thing right now, it’s staying here until you actually get out of the hospital. C’mon, I’ve got your car out back,” he said as he headed to the door.

 

Kaoru scowled, but he was in too much pain to argue.

He grit his teeth as Kojiro drove, feeling like he was going to be sick any second.

 

“Are you alright?”

 

Kaoru scowled a bit. “I’m great. Thanks for asking…”

 

Kojiro sighed. “Just… hang in there. We’ll be there soon.”

 

It was silent for a moment.

 

“Hey, Kaoru?”

 

Kaoru just groaned a bit in response.

 

“Last night… before you fell asleep-“

 

Kaoru froze, feeling a whole different wave of nausea wash over him.

 

“-did you… I mean… Were you trying to say something?”

 

Kaoru shook it off quickly and huffed, rubbing his temples. “Kojiro, I don’t even remember you taking me upstairs,” he growled. “Now, shut up… before I puke in here.”

 

Kojiro sighed heavily. “Fine.”

 

Kaoru refused to let himself read into what almost sounded like disappointment in Kojiro’s tone. He didn’t need to get his hopes up… not again.

 

He closed his eyes and tried to focus on taking even breaths.

 

…

 

“Hey Kaoru-”

 

Kaoru kept his face buried in his pillow as he finally decided to listen to all the voicemails Kojiro had left him over the last week or so. It had been two weeks since Adam left. And over a week since Kojiro had found out that he’d gotten into his dream school in Italy.

 

“I know you said you aren’t feeling well… and I know you’re… still upset about Adam… But… Just call me back when you feel up to it, alright?”

 

“Hey Kaoru. I’m gonna head up to S tonight. You should come. I can stop by, we could go together? Just let me know.”

 

“Hey, man. Are you alright? I’m getting worried about you. At least text me and let me know you’re alive?”

 

“Kaoru, c’mon! He’s not worth this! He never deserved you and honestly you're better off without him! Just get over him already!”

 

Kaoru scowled and considered stopping the messages, but then the next one played.

 

“I’m sorry. That- that was out of line. But I just- I want to see you. I…I’m going to be moving in a few weeks and-”

 

Kaoru blinked and lifted his head when he heard what sounded like sniffling. But that couldn’t be right… Kojiro never cried.

 

“I want to spend time with you before I leave… I’m gonna miss you. We’ve… basically been together our whole lives and I’m- I don’t know… I love you.”

 

Kaoru was pretty sure his heart skipped several beats.

 

“So even if you just need to cry about Adam some more… Please talk to me.”

 

Kaoru grabbed his phone and clicked on Kojiro’s contact.

 

It rang once before Kojiro picked up.

 

“Kaoru??”

 

“Meet me at the skatepark.”

Kaoru sat alone on the top of the halfpipe for about five minutes before Kojiro showed up.

 

He looked down as Kojiro sat next to him.

 

“Glad to see you’re still alive,” Kojiro muttered.

 

“Mhm.”

 

It was quiet for a moment before Kaoru sighed and looked up at him, brushing his bangs back and smirking a little.

 

“So… You love me, huh?”

 

Kojiro blinked, then quickly looked away. “I mean… Yeah. We’ve been friends since we were like six. Wouldn’t it be weird if I didn’t?”

 

Kaoru just stared at him, then looked down. “Yeah… I guess.”

 

It was uncomfortably quiet for a while. 

 

Kaoru felt like an idiot. Of course Kojiro didn’t mean it that way.

 

Kojiro shook his head. “What the hell, Kaoru?? I mean, you just… vanished. I know you’re upset but you’ve never-“

 

Kojiro paused. 

 

“Was that the longest we’ve ever gone without talking? Or at least texting each other?”

 

Kaoru shrugged. “There was that time I broke your skateboard in eighth grade.” 

 

Kojiro huffed. “That lasted like three days.”

 

“Four…”

 

Kojiro just looked at him for a second, then shook his head before asking, “Are you okay?”

 

Kaoru hesitated for a moment, then sighed. 

 

“So… Italy,” he said instead of answering.

 

Kojiro’s brows furrowed. “What about it?”

 

“When do you leave?”

 

“Three weeks.”

 

“Hm…”

 

Kojiro frowned at him, then his eyes widened a bit and his frown was slowly replaced by a smirk. 

 

“Hold on… Are you actually gonna miss me too, Ru?” he asked in a silly, childish voice.

 

Kaoru bristled, crossing his arms and looking away as he felt his face flush. “No, why would anyone miss your annoying ass??”

 

Kojiro laughed. “Aw. Come on. It’s not like I’m leaving forever.”

 

Kaoru huffed. “Yeah. If you say so…”

 

Kojiro frowned. “What’s that supposed to mean? You think I’m lying?”

 

“I think you’re… being optimistic.”

 

“You know I’ve always wanted to open an Italian restaurant here. Why would that change?”

 

Kaoru shrugged. “A lot can change in four years.”

 

Kojiro just looked at him for a moment, then sighed. “Maybe. But that won’t. That’s been my dream for years.”

 

Kaoru didn’t say anything, just looking down at the ground.

 

Kojiro stood up. “I’ll prove it.” 

 

Kaoru blinked up at him. “Huh..?”

 

“You’ll see. In about four years, you’ll be able to brag that your best friend is the owner of the best restaurant in Okinawa.” 

 

Kaoru stared up at him, then huffed. “Someone’s cocky…”

 

“I’m confident.” Kojiro corrected.

 

Kaoru shook his head, smiling a bit in spite of himself.

 

Kojiro offered him a hand. “Come on. Skate with me?”

 

Kaoru hesitated for a moment, then took Kojiro’s hand, figuring that no matter what happened, he may as well just… try to enjoy these last three weeks. Before everything changed.

 

…

 

Kaoru frowned, even though he was actually happy to see Kojiro. Especially since he was carrying a bag full of takeout containers.

 

“You’d better not be neglecting your restaurant, you gorilla. My clients like going there.”

 

Kojiro rolled his eyes. “Uh-huh. Your clients… So you’re telling me you don’t want carbonara?” he asked, holding up the bag.

 

Kaoru huffed. “Don’t put words in my mouth.”

 

Kojiro smirked a bit and walked over to sit by the bed. “That’s what I thought.”

 

Kaoru huffed, not deigning to dignify that with a response.

 

“So… how long are you stuck in here?” Kojiro asked as he opened one of the containers and a set of plastic silverware, sticking the fork in the pasta before placing it on the tray attached to Kaoru’s bed.

 

Kaoru picked up the fork with his good hand, stabbing at the pasta maybe a bit more aggressively than was necessary.  

 

“Well, they said they aren’t too concerned about the concussion anymore. They prescribed me some painkillers. So I could... technically leave right now, if someone hadn’t stolen my wheelchair,” he muttered, glaring at Kojiro.

 

Kojiro huffed as he opened his own container. “I didn’t steal it. I temporarily confiscated it... For your safety.”

 

Kaoru frowned at him.

 

Kojiro sighed. “I know Carla’s super advanced or whatever, but you need people to help you right now. You really want to be struggling to take care of yourself all alone? What’s your AI girlfriend gonna do when you can’t even change your clothes?”

 

Kaoru scowled. “...You’re lucky you make decent pasta and the food here sucks,” he muttered before taking a bite.

 

Kojiro shook his head. “I make excellent pasta and you know it.”

 

“Hmph,” Kaoru huffed, his mouth full of carbonara.

 

Kojiro chuckled a bit, then a comfortable silence fell over them while they ate.

 

Kojiro finally broke it when they were finished.

 

“You know, I could move in with you.”

 

Kaoru frowned. “What?”

 

“Once they actually clear you to leave, I could stay with you until you’re healed enough to take care of yourself. If you want to get out of here. I know you don’t really like hospitals… or being trapped.”

 

Kaoru frowned. “You have to work, you moron.”

 

Kojiro shrugged. “I can pull some strings… I'd just need a couple days to take care of some things first.”

 

Kaoru thought about it for a moment. 

 

It wasn’t a good idea. He was still getting over these idiotic feelings that had been forced back to the forefront of his mind. And he knew that taking the time to do this for him would probably be a much bigger ordeal than Kojiro was letting on.

 

But he couldn’t deny that Kojiro was right. Staying in this hospital room was already getting to him, and he knew that the main reason was because it made him feel incredibly isolated. And he could at least admit to himself that he just… really wanted company right now.

 

Kaoru sighed. “I guess that would be fine. If you’re that desperate for an excuse to take time off…”

 

Kojiro rolled his eyes, but smiled a bit. “Whatever you have to tell yourself.”

 

He got up and collected their trash, throwing it all back in the bag. 

 

“Alright. I’ll see if I can talk to your doctor about it on the way out."

 

"I told you I can leave whenever-"

 

"I'm not sneaking you back out of the hospital just because you have painkillers you can take home now, you idiot."

 

Kaoru huffed and looked away. "Some friend you are," he muttered.

 

Kojiro laughed. "Yeah, I know, I'm pretty great. So, same time tomorrow?”

 

Kaoru sighed dramatically. “I’ll be here… it’s not like I can go anywhere.”

 

Kojiro waved as he left. “I look forward to it. See you tomorrow, Princess.”

 

Kaoru sighed and closed his eyes once he was gone, trying to stifle the light, fluttery feeling in his chest.

 

 

 

 

Chapter 4: Needy Gorilla

 

 

 

Kaoru was bored out of his mind. He’d been in the hospital for another three days and his only real entertainment was when Kojiro brought him pasta for dinner and stayed to bicker with him for a while.

 

He finally managed to wear Kojiro down and convince him to bring Carla back so he could at least get out of his room, but he’d had to swear not to leave the hospital again until he was actually released and Kojiro could come pick him up.

 

He spent most of his time keeping up with news from S… and worrying about what Adam was really up to…

 

Then, strangely enough, he ended up talking to Hiromi after finding out he was in the hospital as well.

 

“A reserve race?” Hiromi asked. “So if I can’t be there then I guess it would be Joe or Miya..?”

 

“It’s Reki.”

 

“WHAT, ARE YOU SERIOUS?” 

 

“He was nominated by Adam.” Kaoru answered calmly.

 

“He’s always plotting something ridiculous… Whatever, he’s not gonna do it though.”

 

“I don’t think he’s smart enough to decline.”

 

“THE MORON BETTER-“ Hiromi paused, realizing he was drawing attention. “Sorry! It’s a tick I have.” he called out before turning his attention back to Kaoru. “Did he forget he almost died out there???”

 

“That’s a… possibility.” Kaoru answered.

 

“What an idiot."

 

Kaoru looked away and stayed quiet, knowing he had absolutely no right to judge.

 

 

 

…

 

 

 

Kaoru’s heart was pounding. He was skating much faster than he ever had in his life, and it was exhilarating.

 

Adam had just told them about the abandoned mine earlier that week and his plans to eventually turn it into a sort of underground race track. They had finally come to check it out together one night after school.

 

They had simply picked a path and taken off. Adam stayed just ahead while Kaoru and Kojiro were neck and neck behind him.

 

Kaoru glanced over and caught Kojiro smiling at him. He just smiled back and laughed as they picked up even more speed.

 

Kojiro blinked, then frowned. “Hey, stop!” he called out over the wind. 

 

Kaoru frowned, then saw why. The path had been washed out ahead, leaving a gap. It wasn’t that big, but Kaoru couldn’t tell how far the drop was from where they were.

 

Kaoru and Kojiro both skidded to a stop, but Adam kept going.

 

“What the hell-” Kojiro muttered just as Adam jumped.

 

Kaoru’s heart skipped a beat as he watched him fly over the gap and nail the landing with ease.

 

Kaoru laughed. “Nice, babe!”

 

Adam spun around and stopped on the other side. “Come on, what are you guys waiting for? It’s not that far.”

 

Kaoru blinked, then took a couple steps forward to look over the edge-

 

It was a long way down… He suddenly felt a bit dizzy-

 

Kojiro grabbed his arm and pulled him back a couple steps.

 

“Come on, you’ve made jumps bigger than that before. And it's downhill. It’s easy .”

 

Kojiro frowned. “Yeah, but-”

 

Kaoru picked up his board. “Just a sec!” he called before making his way back up the hill.

 

“What- Kaoru wait!”

 

Kaoru smirked and turned around once he felt like he had enough distance. “Don’t be a chicken, Koji.”

 

He threw his board down and took off.

 

He took a deep breath as he approached the edge. He could do this. Adam was right. He’d jumped much further before-

 

Kaoru’s form was perfect, but unfortunately, he made the mistake of looking down mid-jump.

 

The next thing he knew, he was bailing on the other side of the gap where Adam was waiting.

 

He groaned and rolled onto his back, feeling the familiar sting of torn skin on his elbow…

 

Adam walked over to him.

 

“What happened, Blossom? I thought you had that…”

 

“I-”

 

“Kaoru!”

 

Kojiro must have made the jump without any issues, because suddenly he was there with them. He knelt down in front of Kaoru.

 

“Are you alright?”

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes and sat up. “I’m fine, you mother hen… Nothing I haven't dealt with before…”

 

Kojiro shrugged off his backpack. “Here, let me see-”

 

Kaoru huffed. “I don’t need your dumb first-aid kit, we have a mountain to-”

 

“It’s fine.” Adam said as he put his board down and placed his foot on top of it. “Let him patch you up, Blossom. I’m gonna go on ahead, check out some different trails. This one probably won’t work for the main track…”

 

He seemed to get lost in thought for a moment, then turned and gave him a small smile. “I’ll meet up with you guys at the bottom. Will you be alright?”

 

Kaoru smiled back. “Yeah, of course.”

 

Kojiro frowned a bit. “Wait, shouldn’t we-”

 

But Adam was already gone.

 

Kaoru sighed and held out his arm. “Alright then. Save me, Doctor Kojiro.”

 

Kojiro just huffed, scowling as he pulled out his first-aid kit.

 

Kaoru blinked. “What’s got you in such a bad mood?”

 

“He’s being reckless...”

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes. “Not this again… We’re skateboarders Kojiro. We all agreed to come explore this place. Why are you calling him out?”

 

“Because he’s being extra reckless and he’s dragging you along with him.”

 

“He is not!”

 

“He just made you jump over that!” Kojiro said, pointing back to the gap in the road. “You would be very dead if you didn’t make it over!”

 

“As opposed to just a little bit dead?”

 

Kojiro scowled a bit.

 

Kaoru huffed. “You jumped it too. Besides, that jump was nothing. I’d kind of deserve it if I didn’t make it over.”

 

“What the hell , Kaoru!?”

 

“It was just a joke. Chill… What’s with you today?”

 

Kojiro sighed and got to work cleaning Kaoru’s elbow. “I don’t know… He’s just been… bothering me lately.”

 

Kaoru raised an eyebrow. “Because he’s being reckless?”

 

“Not just that. I mean… He’s your boyfriend for crying out loud. He could have shown a little more concern.”

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes. “We aren’t all lovey-dovey like you and those girls you date for like two weeks…”

 

Kojiro frowned. “It has nothing to do with that. It’s just basic… care,  or empathy, or… whatever…”

 

Kaoru snorted. “Yeah, okay. Are you a relationship expert now?”

 

Kojiro frowned, but didn’t say anything else as he wrapped gauze and a bandage around Kaoru’s elbow.

 

Kaoru sighed. “He’s just excited, Koji. He has a vision. This place will be amazing . We can skate here without being judged or having cops chasing us or any of that shit. And so can a lot of other skaters. I don’t want him to slow down just because I scraped my elbow.”

 

Kojiro finished taping the bandage in place. “That’s… fair enough, I guess.”

 

Kaoru held up his arm, inspecting Kojiro’s work. 

 

“So, be honest… Do you think I’ll live?”

 

Kojiro laughed a bit. “I think you have a chance. Just don’t go falling off any abandoned mine paths.”

 

Kaoru stood and stretched. “I’ll try, but I make no promises.”

 

Kojiro rolled his eyes and packed up his first aid kit before standing up. “C’mon. Let's go catch up with Adam.”

 

 

 

…

 

 

 

Finally, after being in the hospital for just under a week, Kaoru was able to leave.

 

Kojiro somehow ended up chatting with one of the nurses while Kaoru got some paperwork in order at the front desk. 

 

He caught pieces of their conversation, and he was pretty sure she was the same one who had been there when he woke up.

 

“-sorry for all the trouble. And thank you again for taking such good care of him. He’s… Well, he’s my best friend.”

 

“I told you before, Mr. Nanjo, I was just doing my job. It’s really sweet of you to help him like this, though.”

 

“Nah, I mean... That’s what friends are for, right?”

 

The nurse giggled. “Right... Of course.” 

 

Kaoru could feel his eye twitching and tried to tune them out.

“You shameless pig.” Kaoru muttered as he and Kojiro finally headed out to the car. 

 

“Huh!?”

 

“Using your injured friend to hit on nurses.”

 

Kojiro huffed. “Well excuse me for being grateful that she helped keep you alive! Believe it or not I can just talk to women with no ulterior motives.”

 

Kaoru laughed. “ Right. So I’m your best friend, huh?”

 

“I mean… Yes. What kind of stupid question is that?” Kojiro asked, actually sounding a bit hurt.

 

Kaoru was a little taken aback, but he quickly snapped out of it. “I guess sometimes I just forget how sappy you really are.”

 

Kojiro let out a sharp laugh. “Sorry, Princess. Would you prefer a less mushy title? My pal? My main man?”

 

Your Boyfriend, Kaoru’s brain supplied as Kojiro helped him into the car.

 

“Shut up, you oaf…” Kaoru said instead, not sure if he was talking to Kojiro or himself.

 

Kojiro chuckled and closed the door, put Kaoru’s wheelchair in the trunk, then walked around to the driver’s side.

 

“My partner in crime? My ride-or-die?” he continued as he climbed in and started the car.

 

Kaoru laughed dryly. “That last one’s a bit literal, isn’t it?”

 

Kaoru heard the steering wheel creak as Kojiro tightened his grip on it. 

 

It got uncomfortably quiet for a few seconds.

 

Kojiro sighed heavily. “Don’t… don’t joke about that.” 

 

Kaoru just stared at him for a moment.

 

Kojiro kept his eyes forward, not looking at him. 

 

“Fine… whatever,” Kaoru finally muttered.

 

Kojiro nodded a bit and silently pulled out of the parking lot, making his way to Kaoru’s house.

Later that night, Kojiro helped Kaoru change into a set of pajamas. Kaoru had been dreading it, expecting it to feel awkward, but he realized, as he balanced on his good leg so that Kojiro could pull up his pants… it really didn’t. At least, not nearly as much as he was expecting…

 

His only guess as to why was that, even if neither of them had ever been this injured before, it was still familiar, in a way.

 

He sat on the bed and held out his arms one at a time as Kojiro helped him into a soft, button-down shirt. 

 

Kojiro knelt down to button it for him, but suddenly stopped.

 

Kaoru looked down at him, about to ask what he was doing, but then he paused.

 

Kojiro was just… staring blankly. 

 

He slowly reached out, his hand inches from Kaoru’s chest, when he suddenly paused.

 

Kaoru just sat there, not sure what to do or say.

 

He took a second to really look at Kojiro. He looked… despondent. His eyes were tired, distant.

 

After a moment of hesitation, Kaoru sighed and grabbed Kojiro’s hand.

 

Kojiro blinked up at him with wide eyes.

 

“Don’t think so hard, you needy gorilla… You’ll hurt yourself.”

 

Kojiro just stared for a moment, then sighed, smiling a bit. “Can’t even comfort me without being mean, huh?”

 

Kaoru huffed and let go of him. “Who said anything about comforting you? I just need you to button my shirt…”

 

Kojiro rolled his eyes, but did as he was told. “Whatever you say, Princess .”

 

When Kojiro was finished, he looked up at him. 

 

“Do you need anything else?”

 

Kaoru shook his head. “No… I’m fine.”

 

Kojiro nodded, but didn’t leave, looking down at the floor.

 

Kaoru looked down at him for a moment, then sighed. “I haven’t cleaned the guest room in a while… the sheets are probably dusty.”

 

Kojiro shrugged and finally stood up. “I’m sure it’s fine-”

 

“You can stay in here if you want.”

 

Kojiro blinked at him.

 

“...Just for tonight.”

 

Kojiro sighed, some of the tension slowly leaving his shoulders. “Yeah… Alright.”

 

 

 

 

Chapter 5: Too Close

 

 

 

“I’ll be at the finish line… Push me.”

 

Kojiro huffed, but did as he was told. “Yes, Princess. What, did you fire Carla or something?”

 

Kaoru was surprised it took Kojiro this long to question why he had decided to bring the regular wheelchair to S instead of Carla. He certainly had not fired his AI assistant. 

 

However, Kaoru knew that doing things for him made Kojiro feel better. He had always been like that. And Kaoru didn’t mind being pampered a bit, even if he’d never admit it out loud, so… He figured Carla deserved a night off now and then.

 

Still, Kaoru couldn’t have Kojiro thinking that he was trying to indulge him. Because he wasn’t . 

 

“Of course not, she’s updating tonight.”

 

Kojiro hummed as he walked. “Didn’t you just update her yesterday?”

 

“That one was buggy…”

 

“Uh-huh… Sure.” 

 

Kaoru could practically hear the smirk in Kojiro’s voice. He crossed his arms as best he could.

 

“Why else would I leave her at home, idiot?” 

 

“So I’d have to stay with you all night.”

 

“And why on earth would I want that?”

 

Kojiro leaned down a bit closer as he walked. “Because you love me,” he teased.

 

Kaoru scowled, feeling his face heat up. 

 

“A ridiculous and baseless theory…”

 

“Oh please, I’ve got plenty of stuff to base it on.”

 

Kaoru glared up at him. “Such as? ”

 

“Well, you’re letting me stay with you.”

 

“Out of necessity.”

 

“You keep asking me to brush your hair all the time.”

 

“My wrist is sprained, you gorilla.”

 

“And you’ve been letting me-“

 

“Ugh. Why do you two always bicker like an old married couple?” 

 

Kaoru blushed a bit. He’d kind of forgotten Miya was walking next to them.

 

“We do not!”

 

Kojiro shrugged. “We kinda do… More evidence for my baseless theory.”

 

“Shut it, you ape!”

 

“Make me.”

 

Miya groaned and walked on ahead of them.

 

Kaoru could only stare up at the screen for a moment, not quite believing what he was seeing.

 

Adam… facedown in the mud… struggling to compose himself… to even get up after his failed attempt to pull the same stunt that had sent Kaoru to the hospital on Reki.

 

People around them speculated.

 

“This can’t be right. He tripped.”

 

“You’ve gotta be kidding… You sure it’s Adam?”

 

Kaoru looked down, eyes closed, trying really hard to hold back…

 

“Kaoru?” Kojiro said, a mixture of confusion and mild concern in his voice.

 

Kaoru finally gave up and just let himself burst out laughing. He had to take a few breaths to calm himself enough to speak. 

 

“It serves him right. Defeated by the weather!” He couldn’t help laughing more as the moment replayed in his head, especially at Adam’s undignified yelp as he slipped.

 

Kojiro was silent for a moment, but then he started laughing as well.

 

“An entire legacy, washed away with the rain!”

 

Kaoru laughed a bit more, finally looking up at Kojiro.

 

He was grinning up at the screen, a truly mirthful glint in his eye that Kaoru just realized he hadn’t seen since his beef with Adam.

 

Kojiro looked back down at him and his expression softened just slightly. He smiled even brighter, then closed his eyes and laughed again, quieter this time.

 

Kaoru couldn’t help smiling back at him, before looking away, still laughing a bit himself.

 

They both finally calmed themselves and Kaoru looked up to find Kojiro looking at him, a gentle fondness in his eyes.

 

Kaoru cleared his throat and turned his attention back to the screen, trying to ignore the way his heart was fluttering.

…

“-ru… kaoru… Kaoru… Kaoru!!!”

 

Kaoru blinked slowly to find Kojiro hovering over him, his face way too close. 

 

“Wh’ are you- G’ off me, y’ oaf…” he mumbled as he pushed him away, trying to remember what happened…

 

Kojiro sighed and backed off, his shoulders sagging a bit. “Thank god…”

 

Kaoru pushed himself up a bit and winced, closing his eyes as he realized he had a splitting headache. “What-”

 

“What the hell was that!?!”

 

Kaoru blinked, confused by the sudden anger in Kojiro’s tone. But then he realized it wasn’t directed at him. Kojiro had turned to glare at Adam, who was standing a few feet away, one foot still on his skateboard.

 

Adam shrugged, smirking a bit. “I was just trying to give my boyfriend a hug.”

 

“You nearly crashed right into him! You could’ve-”

 

“Koji… knock it off…” Kaoru muttered as he sat up. 

 

He remembered now. He and Adam had been racing, and then suddenly Adam had been right in front of him, skating towards him with his arms out…

 

“Are you serious?? Kaoru, he-!”

 

“Stop!” Kaoru growled. 

 

Kojiro looked at him with wide eyes. “Kaoru-“

 

“I’m sick and tired of you attacking him all the time! It was just a trick! I bailed! Adam wasn’t trying to hurt me! Back off!”

 

Kojiro just stared at him, looking a little stunned.

 

Kaoru scoffed and slowly got to his feet.

 

He felt a bit dizzy… but he walked over to Adam.

 

Adam gave him a charming smile. “Sorry, Blossom.” He lowered his voice so only Kaoru could hear before adding, “You know how I get carried away…” 

 

Kaoru blushed and lightly punched his shoulder, smiling a bit. “Shut up, I’m fine. How the hell did you skate up the track, anyway?”

 

Adam smirked. “I can’t give you all my secrets, Blossom.”

 

Kaoru laughed a bit. “Alright, well, where’s my board? Let’s finish this.”

 

Adam shook his head, wrapping an arm around Kaoru’s waist. “I think that’s enough skating for you tonight. Let’s… put this on hold and get you home.”

 

Kaoru blushed a bit, but nodded. “If you insist...”

 

He turned to look at Kojiro, who was still kneeling on the ground, his eyebrows furrowed.

 

Adam must have noticed. He squeezed Kaoru a bit tighter before speaking.

 

“No hard feelings, Joe. I know he’s your best friend. But I’ve got him. Don’t worry.”

 

Kojiro looked away. “Yeah… Sure.”

 

Kaoru started to say “ see you at school tomorrow,” or something along those lines, but then he thought better of it and let Adam lead him off the track.

…

“Hey… You okay?”

 

Kaoru blinked and looked up at Kojiro, who was kneeling next to him on the tile floor.

 

Kaoru had felt gross after being at S all night and finally couldn’t put it off anymore. So here he was, sitting in a hot bath, resting his right arm and his left leg on the edges of the tub, a plastic bag covering his cast, letting Kojiro wash his hair.

 

Kaoru sighed. “I’m fine. Just… tired,” he said, still thinking about what Adam said after the race.

 

“-and together we will fall… infinitely… we will become an Adam and Eve for a new age.”

 

Kojiro raised an eyebrow, clearly not buying it.

 

Kaoru only glanced up at him before looking down at the water.

 

“If Adam… hurts Langa, I’ll be partially responsible.”

 

Kojiro tilted his head slightly. “What are you talking about?”

 

Kaoru frowned. “You already called me out for using him.”

 

Kojiro sighed and started carefully rinsing the shampoo from Kaoru’s hair with a cup he’d grabbed from the kitchen. 

 

“Don’t give yourself so much credit… You know he and Reki both would have gotten themselves into this mess even without your help. At least he knows about Adam’s tricks thanks to you. Besides, Reki came close to winning tonight. Langa might actually have a pretty good chance.”

 

Kaoru tilted his head back a bit and kept his eyes closed. “Adam wasn’t really trying tonight. Not until the end. I should have stopped him in the qualifiers. I could have… if I didn’t-“ 

 

Kaoru stopped himself, biting his lip.

 

“Hey… Don’t beat yourself up over that.”

 

Kaoru laughed dryly and opened his eyes when Kojiro was finished. 

 

“What happened to “ if you lose I’ll never stop laughing at your ignorance,” are you going soft on me, Kojiro?”

 

Kojiro huffed and grabbed a bottle from the shelf. “So what if I am?”

 

Kaoru just stared up at him, not sure how to respond to that.

 

Kojiro squeezed some conditioner into his hands and started massaging it into Kaoru’s hair, then sighed. 

 

“But no, he cheated. It didn’t count.”

 

Kaoru closed his eyes again. “It’s S, sweetie. You can’t cheat when there aren’t rules.”  

 

“Some rules are unspoken. Like not trying to murder your opponent.”

 

Kaoru scoffed. “We risk our lives every time we skate down that mountain. You know that.”

 

“Well yeah, accidents and underhanded tricks are one thing, but-“

 

“But nothing. I miscalculated. And I paid the price.”

 

Kojiro hesitated for a second, then sighed, staying quiet as he started rinsing Kaoru’s hair again.

 

“Or… maybe I overcalculated. ” 

 

“What do you mean?”

 

Kaoru laughed dryly. “You heard Adam… You’ve even said it yourself. I’m boring… that’s why he-“ Kaoru stopped, biting his lip. He was not going to get emotional over this. Not now.

 

Kojiro huffed and started carefully untangling Kaoru’s hair with his fingers. “Oh, come on. You’re really letting his petty insults get to you? You’re the most interesting person I know.”

 

Kaoru scowled. “I’m not a child , I don’t need your fake reassurance-”

 

“It’s not fake.”

 

Kaoru scoffed.

 

“I mean… You’re fun to fight with.”

 

“Oh, well, I’m so glad you think I’m good for something at least .” Kaoru muttered sarcastically.

 

“You’re also insanely smart-”

 

Kaoru blinked up at him.

 

Kojiro smiled and continued running his fingers through Kaoru’s hair. 

 

“-and I never know what crazy new thing you’re gonna try with your ridiculous AI girlfriend-”

 

“She’s not-”

 

“ -and you’re the only person I trust as a taste tester. You’re brutally honest and you notice the smallest little things. That keeps me on my toes, for sure.”

 

Kaoru just stared up at him.

 

“And you’re just fun to talk to, even on the rare occasions when it doesn’t turn into an argument. You’re like an artist and a tech guy, which just isn’t fair... You’re actually a really kind person, despite what you would have everyone think. You’re also beau-”

 

“Okay! Just… Stop. You sappy ape.” Kaoru said, looking away, his face feeling hot.

 

It was quiet for a moment.

 

“You lied to me.”

 

Kaoru blinked. “Huh?”

 

“You told me you didn’t remember anything after the race started.”

 

Kaoru panicked for half a second, then took a deep breath. “I don’t. Carla was recording the race. I listened to it while I was in the hospital.” 

 

Kojiro froze for a second. “So, you- I mean- What all did you... hear?”

 

Kaoru hesitated.

 

"Just... What Adam said to me... and then you... The mic was damaged when I fell. I think when you picked me up it was enough to… completely knock it out. It just turned to static.”

 

"Oh..."

 

Kaoru frowned a bit and looked up at him. "Why? Am I... missing something?"

 

Kojiro quickly shook his head. “No... No, I just... I guess that explains why you never asked me about it again.”

 

Kaoru look away and let out a heavy sigh. He wasn't surprised, but he couldn't help feeling a little disappointed. “Yeah...”

 

“Alright. Let’s get you out of there before the water gets cold.”

 

Kaoru just nodded a bit.

 

Kojiro helped him dry off and brushed his hair, then carried him back out to his room, placing him on the bed before grabbing him a set of pajamas.

 

Kaoru sighed. “I… I’ve got it from here. Go take a shower.”

 

Kojiro frowned a bit. “Are you sure?”

 

“Yes. I’m not as sore now.”

 

“Alright. Do you mind if I stay in here?”

 

Kaoru raised an eyebrow at him. “...You want to watch me change, you pervert?”

 

Kojiro blushed, like he hadn’t just seen Kaoru completely naked and helped him bathe. 

 

“I meant when I get back! Dummy… ” 

 

Kaoru laughed a bit, then sighed. He should really say no this time. He couldn’t get used to having Kojiro around like this…

 

“Just… Stop asking. It’s less hassle if you don’t mess up my guest room.”

 

Kojiro snorted. “Uh-huh. It’s certainly not because you like having me in here…”

 

“I can still change my mind, you ape,” Kaoru muttered.

 

Kojiro chuckled a bit as he headed back to the bathroom. “Okay, okay.”

 

“Kojiro…”

 

Kojiro paused in the doorway and turned to face him. “Yeah?”

 

Kaoru opened his mouth, hesitated, then sighed. He wasn't sure why it had struck him all of a sudden, but  there was something he needed to say. Something that was long overdue.

 

“...Thank you.”

 

It was dead silent for a few seconds.

 

“For… what?”

 

“Seriously? For… everything. For helping me.”

 

“You don’t need to thank me. I wouldn’t just… leave you alone like this.”

 

They just looked at each other for a moment, then Kaoru looked away, frowning a bit.

 

“Well… I’m still grateful.”

 

It was quiet again for a moment.

 

“You’re welcome, Princess.”

 

Kaoru looked up just in time to catch a glimpse of Kojiro’s genuine smile before he closed the bathroom door.

 

Kaoru sighed and rubbed his hands over his face, wondering why he was doing this to himself.

…

Kaoru couldn’t help smiling when he finally spotted Kojiro across the airport.

 

It had been just over three years since Kojiro left for school. He had visited or even invited Kaoru to visit every time they had a chance. He’d made time for Kaoru every time he came home, even if it was only for a few days. And he’d continued to talk about his dream to open a restaurant in Okinawa.

 

Kaoru had finally let himself believe that maybe… he would really have his best friend back in another year.

 

He noticed, as Kojiro got closer, that his arms looked even more muscular than the last time Kaoru saw him a few months ago. Apparently being a chef was more physically demanding than he realized.

 

He watched Kojiro’s face light up when he finally noticed him. He ran over and dropped his bags before wrapping his arms around him tightly.

 

Kaoru huffed. “Do you have to do this every time?” he asked even as he returned the hug.

 

“Yup.” Kojiro answered before letting go and grabbing his bags. “It’s good to see you.”

 

Kaoru looked away. “We saw each other not that long ago, dummy…”

 

Kojiro laughed. “Uh-huh. I missed you too, you jerk.”

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes, but smiled a bit. “Come on. Let’s get out of here.”

Kaoru took Kojiro to his house to get settled in, then the two of them went out to a bar later that evening just to talk and catch up over some drinks.

 

“Art and computer science, huh? That’s an interesting combination.”

 

Kaoru shrugged. “I told you I was enjoying the classes. I was just taking them for fun and to fill out my schedule, but then I realized it would be fairly easy to finish the rest of the requirements next year. So why not?”

 

“Well look at you, Mr. Brainiac. Are you still gonna go into calligraphy then?”

 

Kaoru nodded. “Of course. I actually have some ideas to combine the two.”

 

Kojiro tilted his head. “Uh… how?”

 

Kaoru smirked a bit. “You’ll have to wait and see once I get my own studio.”

 

Kojiro laughed and shook his head. “Yeah? How long do you think that will take?”

 

Kaoru shrugged. “Maybe a year or two after I graduate. We’ll see.”

 

Kojiro nodded a bit, looking down. “Hm…”

 

“So, what about you? Do you have a place in mind for your restaurant?”

 

“No… not yet.”

 

Kaoru nodded a bit. “Well, I’ve noticed a few places for sale near campus. We could go look around one day.”

 

“It’s uh… I don’t think I really need to be doing that now .”

 

“Well yeah, not right now, but you only have another year of school before you come back, it's probably a good idea to be thinking about it at least.”

 

“Yeah… Um… About that-“

 

Kaoru felt his heart sink. “...What?”

 

“I… have a job lined up after I graduate…  in Italy.”

 

“What??”

 

“I applied through this program at school and… Well, I didn’t think it was worth mentioning because it’s really competitive but… I actually got it.”

 

Kaoru just stared at him. His chest felt tight….

  

“It’s an amazing opportunity, Kaoru. I’ll be working with some of the best chefs in the country. I can’t pass that up, and-”

 

Kaoru finally looked away, scowling down at the bar. “So you’re staying there. ”

 

“That’s not what I-”

 

Kaoru shook his head. He was not going to cry… Not here. Not in front of Kojiro… He should have known-

 

He placed some money on the bar, more than enough to cover his drink, then stormed out. 

 

“What- Hold on- Where are you- Kaoru!?”

 

Kaoru ran as soon as he was outside.

 

 

 

Chapter 6: Spiraling

 

 

 

“Blossom.”

 

Kaoru found himself in a hazy, dimly lit room filled with red fog.

 

“Adam..?”

 

Adam appeared, walking through the mist. He was in his S outfit, mask and all. He stepped closer and cupped Kaoru’s cheek. “Blossom, darling. Are you alright?”

 

Kaoru bit his lip and shook his head before leaning into the touch.

 

“Aw, I’m so sorry, love… you know how I get carried away…” he said tenderly, stroking Kaoru’s cheek, right where his skateboard had hit him. “Please forgive me..?”

 

“Of course…”

 

Adam smiled. “You’re so special” he said, leaning in and kissing him.

 

Kaoru hummed and kissed him back, closing his eyes…

 

“Kaoru!”

 

Kaoru paused, looking over Adam’s shoulder to see Kojiro running towards them.

 

Adam sighed. “How annoying…”

 

Kojiro reached out, but Adam waved his hand and he was engulfed in fog. When it dissipated, Kojiro was gone.

 

Kaoru blinked. “Wait… what did you do..?”

 

Adam smiled. “It’s just us now…”

 

Kaoru took a step back. “Wait… bring him b-“

 

Adam followed after him and kissed him again, aggressively backing him into a wall.

 

When he pulled away, he was no longer wearing his S costume, but his old, white hoodie that hid his eyes.

 

“Forget about him.” Adam whispered, their faces inches apart. “He’ll never be yours…”

 

Kaoru shook his head. “I... I don't care. I still want him here-“

 

Adam stroked his cheek. “Doesn’t matter, Blossom. You know I’m all you’ll ever have.”

 

With that, Adam vanished as well, leaving Kaoru alone.

Kaoru realized it was just a stupid dream the second he woke up, but he still felt weirdly shaken by it.

 

He turned his head to find Kojiro next to him, sleeping soundly.

 

Kaoru took a deep breath and rolled onto his side, facing away from him.

 

He was just anxious about Langa’s race with Adam tomorrow night… and he also had a follow-up appointment for his ankle and wrist in the morning… it was just his nerves… The nightmare didn’t mean anything…

 

Or, that was what he told himself as he tried to go back to sleep.

In the morning, Kojiro took Kaoru to the hospital for his appointment. They removed Kaoru’s cast and gave him a walking boot to wear while his ankle finished healing and a more flexible brace for his wrist.

 

He frowned when he came back to the waiting room to find Kojiro chatting with that same nurse again as well as two others, a big, dumb smile on his face…

 

Kaoru walked over to them, arms crossed.

 

Kojiro noticed him after a moment and his smile shifted. Less flirty, less performative. More genuine and fond. Kaoru wasn't sure how to feel about it.

 

“Hey, look at you, no more cast! Everything good?”

 

“Everything’s fine.” He said in his customer service voice, not wanting to make a scene. “Take your time… I’m going out to the car.”

 

“No, no, I’m ready.” Kojiro turned and smiled at the nurses. “Nice talking to all of you again.”

 

…Again? All three of them? How many nurses had Kojiro hit on while he was here?

 

They all said goodbye and Kojiro followed after Kaoru. 

 

Once they were outside, Kojiro put a hand on his shoulder. “Hey, wait. What’s wrong?”

 

“Huh..?”

 

“What’s wrong..? Is something not healing right or…”

 

“No. Everything’s healing fine. They took my cast off, dummy. Why would you think that?”

 

Kojiro huffed. “Well something is bothering you…”

 

Kaoru blinked, then huffed and looked away. “It’s nothing… Just… being in there again made me anxious… that's all…”

 

“Oh… Are you okay? Do you need to-“

 

Kaoru scowled a bit. “I’m fine. Stop fussing over me, you gorilla…”

 

It was quiet for a moment before Kojiro sighed.

 

“Alright, let’s go then... I can make some carbonara for lunch.”

 

Kaoru sighed, feeling a knot start to form in his chest. “Yeah… Okay.”

 

“Are you sure you don’t need help..?” 

 

Kaoru frowned a bit, hearing that question for probably the fifth or sixth time that evening.

 

“Yes. I can handle it.”

 

“You sure? You’ve been at it for a while.”

 

Kaoru scowled a bit as he finally got his pants over his boot. “I know it’s hard for your gorilla brain to comprehend, but putting on clothes like a civilized person takes longer than just showing up at S naked…”

 

Kojiro rolled his eyes. “Well, we won’t be going to S at this rate.”

 

“Shut up. We have to go tonight, idiot.”

 

Kojiro sighed. “I know. I’m just saying we can get there sooner if you let me help. We have to pick everyone up, you know.”

 

Kaoru huffed. “You mean I have to pick them up.”

 

Kojiro frowned. “Yeah, I still don’t think that’s a great idea.”

 

“Well, unless you want to pick them up and let me drive your motorcycle…”

 

Kojiro crossed his arms. “No.”

 

“That’s what I thought. Now back off, you ape. I can do this myself now.”

 

Kojiro sighed and raised his hands in surrender. “Fine… I’ll be in the living room if you need me.”

 

“Just go. Don’t wait.” Kaoru called after him.

 

He did manage to get dressed on his own. Even if getting his hair up how he wanted it put a painful amount of strain on his wrist.

 

He finally walked into the living room and, of course, found Kojiro sitting on the couch, waiting.

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes. “Let’s go, you clingy gorilla.”

 

It turned out Kojiro probably could have just driven everybody, since Reki and Langa insisted on sitting in the very back of the car so that Reki could finish working on Langa’s board… 

 

But Kaoru was already driving at that point and he wasn’t having any issues, so he just went ahead with the plan to meet Kojiro there.

 

“Your injuries healed suspiciously fast…” Miya said, glancing at Shadow.

 

“I can’t sleep my life away in a hospital.” Shadow retorted.

 

“Amen to that…” Kaoru agreed.

 

Shadow was quick to change the subject. “So, do we think Langa can win this thing?”

 

“I thought he did pretty well in that match he was in the other day.” Miya answered.

 

Kaoru hesitated for a second, then figured he should probably point it out. “…But Adam wasn’t fully invested then.”

 

“What do you mean?” Miya asked.

 

“You guys have probably seen him skate at his max a lot.” Shadow said.

 

“Nope. Not one time… He’s never felt the need to go out of his way to prove himself to anyone…”

 

And I was stupid enough to think I could change that…

 

Kaoru frowned and gripped the steering wheel a bit tighter.

…

Kaoru looked down as he and Kojiro walked home together in silence.

 

Adam had been different the last few weeks. He hadn’t skated with them at all since trying out his new move on Kaoru. Instead, he kept challenging newcomers at S, picking dangerous paths for their races.

 

They had just helped Adam’s most recent victim to the hospital after the edge of the track had given out under his wheels. Luckily, it seemed he would be okay and the nurses had at least pretended to buy their story that they were just skateboarding and he fell trying to do a trick.

 

Kaoru finally couldn’t take it anymore. 

 

“Why aren’t you saying it?”

 

Kojiro looked at him and frowned. “Saying what?”

 

“I told you so.” Kaoru growled. 

 

Kojiro blinked. “Why would I??”

 

Kaoru scowled, tears stinging in his eyes. 

 

“Because you were right about him.” 

 

Kojiro looked down. “Well I’m not happy about it.”

 

Karou clenched his fists. 

 

“…And what was all that about… someone made for him… His Eve?”

 

Kojiro sighed. “I don’t know… I don’t think he means it like that? He’s just… gotten weird about skating.”

 

“We need to talk to him…”

 

“Kaoru… He won’t listen-”

 

“He’ll listen to us- to me. I can… We can talk some sense into him.”

 

Kojiro just looked at him for a moment, his eyebrows drawn together slightly, then he sighed heavily. “...Okay. We’ll try.” 

 

Karou nodded. They would get to the bottom of it. And everything would be fine…

 

…

 

 

For a second, Kaoru honestly thought Reki and Langa were about to kiss. After Langa crossed the finish line inches ahead of Adam and leapt from his board, tackling the poor boy to the ground…

 

But they just smiled and said something to each other before the rest of their strange little group showed up and jumped on Langa to celebrate his victory.

 

Kaoru was the only one who stayed out of it…  which allowed him to notice Adam and Snake quietly leaving together, walking side-by-side. It was hard to tell from so far away, but Adam seemed… happier. Perhaps a bit more relaxed at the very least.

 

He was honestly happy for him. For both of them… but-

  

He looked back down at their little group.

 

Reki was still clinging onto Langa, even though everyone else had backed off and started talking excitedly about the race.

 

Kojiro glanced up at him, giving him a concerned look.

 

Kaoru crossed his arms and looked away, pretending not to notice.

…

 

Kaoru frowned as he stumbled down the street, one arm slung over Kojiro’s shoulder.

 

Kojiro had found him after he ran off… at the fourth or fifth bar he’d been to… all over some random guy… and even in his drunken state, Kaoru could tell Kojiro wasn’t happy about it. 

 

“I don’… seee the probl’m…” Kaoru slurred. “I know… You hook up with rand’m girls… aaall the time…”

 

Kojiro scowled, keeping his eyes forward. “Not after I’ve been drinking all night! Not when I’m supposed to be spending time with you! And not after vanishing mid-conversation and leaving my friend alone wondering what the hell happened!”

 

Kaoru huffed. “Why d’ you… care..?”

 

“What do you mean? Why wouldn’t I-!”

 

“I’ll… never see you again… after… this s-summer…”

 

“That’s not true! I’m just-”

 

“But I don’… waant it to… be this way! Not forever … I can’t…”

 

Kojiro frowned. “What are you talking about??”

 

Kaoru stopped, pulling away from Kojiro and leaning heavily against the side of a building before promptly throwing up on the sidewalk.

 

“Ughh…” he groaned, his legs shaking.

 

Kojiro sighed and easily scooped him up in his arms. “Alright… let's just get you home. Are your parents in?”

 

Kaoru rested his head against Kojiro’s shoulder. “Dudn’t matter… Don’… live there… aaanymore…”

 

“I know, but it’ll be a lot easier to take care of you there. And I’m sure your roommate wouldn’t appreciate-”

 

“No… Dummy… Can’t go to m’ parents house… Got… Kick’d out…”

 

Kojiro stopped. “What!? W-When??”

 

“I dunno… las’ year..? Finl’y…Told em’ m’ gayy…” Kaoru laughed, though he wasn’t really sure what was funny. “...They… Freeaked th’ fuck… out…”

 

“You told me you moved on campus because you didn’t like the commute!”

 

Kaoru shrugged a bit. “Wasn’ a… lie… N’ I didn’ want you t’ worry… Like now… fuck’n… worry…t- too much… dummy…”

 

Kojiro sighed heavily, adjusting his grip a bit before he started walking again with a little more purpose. “Alright… Come on…”

 

The next thing Kaoru knew, he was waking up in Kojiro’s bed with probably the worst headache he’d ever had in his life… which was saying something… 

 

Kaoru groaned a bit and opened his eyes to find Kojiro sitting next to him.

 

“Hey, he lives…” Kojiro teased half-heartedly.

 

Kaoru huffed and closed his eyes again. “Shut up…” he muttered hoarsely.

 

“Here…”

 

Kaoru opened his eyes to see Kojiro offering him a bottle of gatorade… He couldn’t help thinking back to the night Adam left…

 

He hid his face in a pillow and sniffled.

 

“Kaoru…”

 

He felt Kojiro shift next to him, then felt a strong arm wrap around his waist. 

 

Kaoru’s eyes flew open, he shook his head and pushed Kojiro away. “Don’t… I… just… just don’t…”

 

Kojiro blinked, but let go and quickly sat back up. “Okay… I’m… I’m sorry…”

 

Kaoru looked up at him for a moment, then buried his face in the pillow again. “I’ll… I’ll leave… Just… g-give me a minute…”

 

“You don’t have to leave , Kaoru. Just… just rest. If you want I can take you back to your dorm when you’re feeling better.”

 

Kaoru hesitated, then sighed. “I… I want to be alone.”

 

It was a lie. And he was sure Kojiro knew it… but he just… couldn’t. He couldn’t survive getting his hopes up only to have them come crashing back down again…

 

Kojiro sighed heavily, but got up. “Alright. We can talk later. There’s water and gatorade on the nightstand. Just call for me if you need anything…”

 

Kaoru just bit his lip. He knew he didn’t deserve Kojiro… even as a friend… he was surprised the idiot still didn’t seem to realize it.

 

But then again, maybe he had… maybe he was just being nice one last time out of pity before finally moving half-way around the world for good.

 

Kaoru just lay there for a while, crying as he realized he’d probably never be in this house again… this room.

 

He took some time to commit it to memory… Then left out the window, as he’d done so many times before, for the last time.

 

…

Kaoru finally made it back home after dropping everyone off and was surprised to find Kojiro still sitting on his motorcycle in the driveway.

 

“What are you doing out here?” Kaoru asked as he got out of the car.

 

Kojiro tilted his head a bit. “Waiting for you?”

 

“You have a key, you moron…” 

 

Kojiro blinked. “So?”

 

“So, I can walk now. I don’t need your help getting inside,” he said as he headed to the door.

 

Kaoru could feel Kojiro’s presence behind him as he walked. 

 

“I mean, I could still carry you if you want,” he teased.

 

Kaoru huffed and pushed him back. 

 

Kojiro chuckled.

 

“Why would I want that, you dumb gorilla?” Kaoru muttered as he unlocked the door.

 

“I keep telling you. Because you love-“

 

Kaoru scowled. “Finish that sentence and you’re sleeping outside…”

 

Kojiro laughed a bit. “Okay, okay...”

 

It was quiet as they made their way inside.

 

Kojiro spoke up just before they made it to Kaoru’s bedroom. 

 

“Hey… Are you alright?”

 

Kaoru stopped in the doorway, frowning. “I’m fine. Why?”

 

“You just seem… off.”

 

Kaoru just frowned down at the floor.

 

Kojiro took a couple steps closer, gently placing his hand on Kaoru’s shoulder. “It’s okay if you’re-“

 

Kaoru shrugged his hand off and spun around to face him. “You should move out tomorrow.”

 

Kojiro blinked. “W-what?”

 

“I can walk and mostly use both hands now-” Kaoru said, looking down.

 

Kojiro frowned. “Yeah, but-“

 

“So, I won’t be needing your help anymore… You can go home.”

 

“But you’re still-“

 

Kaoru frowned and looked up at him. “Still what?”

 

“Hurt.” Kojiro said, vaguely gesturing at him. “Where is this coming from all of a sudden!? I… I thought-“

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes. “This was the plan all along, idiot… I’m fine. So you can leave.”

 

Kojiro shook his head a bit, his eyebrows drawn together slightly. “Is it- You can just tell me if you want your room back to yourself. I don’t mind sleeping in-“

 

“Kojiro,” Kaoru said sternly. “You can leave. I’ve wasted enough of your time-”

 

Kojiro grabbed his shoulder again. “Hey. You’re not a waste of my time. Ever.”

 

Kaoru closed his eyes, biting his lip. “Shut up… Don’t say stuff like that.”

 

“I mean it.”

 

Kaoru opened his eyes, but looked down at the floor instead of at Kojiro. “No you don’t. ”

 

“Yes I do.”

 

Kaoru blinked when he felt Kojiro’s hand move to cup his cheek.

 

“If you really want me to move out, I will. But I’m still gonna come check on you, so you're not saving me any time.”

 

Kaoru just looked up at him for a moment, his brain struggling slightly with Kojiro touching his face, looking at him so openly.

 

He finally snapped out of it and frowned. “Why are you so clingy?”

 

Kojiro laughed a bit. “You’ve made it this far, I don’t want you getting hurt again now.”

 

Kaoru’s eyebrows furrowed a bit. 

 

Kojiro looked at him for a few seconds, then sighed. “Honestly, I’ve also just… enjoyed spending more time with you. We should really… start hanging out again.”

 

“We were hanging out before...” Kaoru said, confused.

 

“I mean outside of S or my restaurant. Like… we could start going on trips again, or just go to the skate park together, or the beach, or a museum. Hell, you could just come over… spend the night. We could… watch movies or something.”

 

Kaoru huffed and looked away. “We’re not kids anymore, Kojiro…”

 

Kojiro frowned a bit. “So what? We’re still friends.”

 

Kaoru let out a short laugh, finally reaching up to grab Kojiro’s wrist and pull his hand away. “Are we..?”

 

Kojiro froze and Kaoru immediately knew he’d made a mistake.

 

“Ouch…” Kojiro muttered bitterly, pulling his hand back.

 

Kaoru reached after it, but stopped himself. “That’s not- I didn’t mean…“ 

 

Kojiro looked down at the floor, his shoulders stiff. “No... No. You’re right. We never really- We aren’t as close as we used to be… are we?”

 

Kaoru quickly shook his head. “I didn’t mean it like that!”

 

“Well how did you mean it, Kaoru!?” Kojiro asked, crossing his arms as he looked up at him.

 

They just stared at each other for a moment. 

 

Kaoru looked away, his face flushing.

 

“How did you mean it..?” Kojiro asked much more calmly.

 

Kaoru shook his head. “I… I don’t know, okay? I just- It was just a bad joke- I didn’t- It’s not that I don’t-”

 

He sighed and gave up on trying to explain himself, looking down.

 

He blinked when Kojiro gently tilted his chin up.

 

“You’re… really special to me, Kaoru."

 

Kaoru just stared up at him with wide eyes.

 

Kojiro slowly started to lean in-

 

Kaoru didn’t stop him-

 

Kojiro kissed him.

 

 

…

 

Kaoru blinked slowly, dazed and disoriented. His entire body ached…

 

Familiar arms wrapped around him and pulled him close.

 

Kaoru gasped and tensed up, gripping onto Adam’s arms with shaking hands. 

 

“Shhh… I’m so sorry, love. It’s alright now… I’ve got you.”

 

Kaoru sniffled, but relaxed a bit when he heard his boyfriend’s gentle tone… it was finally over…

 

“Hey… Don’t cry, Blossom. It’s okay. Please forgive me?”

 

Kaoru nodded a bit and slowly closed his eyes.

 

“You’re so special, Blossom.”

…

Kaoru gasped and pushed Kojiro away as hard as he could, panting slightly. 

 

Kojiro stumbled back a couple steps, looking very confused.

 

“…Kaoru?”

 

Kaoru forced himself to take slow, deep breaths, unable to look Kojiro in the eye. “You… should sleep in the guest room tonight.”

 

He stepped into his room before Kojiro could respond.

 

Kaoru closed the door and leaned back against it before letting himself slide down to the floor, trying to breathe around the painful pit in his chest.

 

 

 

Chapter 7: The Challenge

 

 

 

Kaoru went straight to his garage in the morning, planning to spend the whole day working on Carla.

 

He did still need to fix his bracelet. And make sure the internal parts of his board hadn’t been damaged. He wasn’t just trying to avoid Kojiro… At least, that was what he told himself.

 

He was running on maybe an hour of sleep, but he got to work, starting by taking the bracelet apart. 

 

He lost track of time as he replaced the lights and the mic before finally piecing it back together.

 

He grabbed the damaged pieces of the protective outer casing and started to throw them away, but paused as he looked at them.

 

They looked brand new other than the scratches and cracks.

 

Kaoru bit his lip as he ran his fingers over the plastic pieces. They were probably even shinier and cleaner than they had been before the race.

 

They hadn’t talked about it, but Kaoru knew it was Kojiro’s doing.

 

Kojiro, who didn’t even like Carla, who never understood his fascination with technology or AI. Who had sat in a hospital, waiting, cleaning and polishing a broken bracelet, just because he knew how important it was to Kaoru. Because he cared. 

 

Kaoru looked at the pieces, inspecting each one carefully. 

 

He ended up replacing one piece that was too badly cracked to actually protect the delicate electronic components, but he snapped the rest back into place, scratches and all, before plugging it into his laptop to run some tests.

 

A notification popped up, asking him if he’d like to save the recording from that night as it started playing from where he’d stopped, audio of Kojiro quietly crying over him coming through the speakers.

 

Kaoru just stared at the screen for a moment as it all caught up to him.

 

Kojiro confessed to him.

 

Kojiro dropped everything to take care of him for weeks.

 

Kojiro kissed him last night.

 

And he was hiding in his garage because… 

 

Why? Because he felt awkward after Kojiro had accidentally triggered a mild panic attack by saying he was special?

 

Kaoru shook his head and went back into the house.

 

“Kojiro??” he called out.

 

He checked the kitchen and the bedrooms, but discovered that Kojiro had already collected his things and left.

 

Kaoru headed back to his garage. 

 

Should he call him? Go to the restaurant? But what if Kojiro was upset and didn’t want to talk? What if he’d finally had enough of Kaoru’s shit and wanted to be left alone? What if-

 

He walked back into the garage and realized he’d left the recording playing. He was surprised to hear familiar voices rather than a bunch of doctors spouting medical jargon.

 

“-and I know it was messed up , but you really need to calm down, man,” said Shadow’s voice through the bouncing static, strangely fading in and out as he spoke.

 

“ Fuck that,” Kojiro growled. “I’m gonna kill that arrogant bastard!”

 

Kojiro’s voice was much clearer than Shadows, but the static still wavered in a steady rhythm. Kaoru realized Kojiro must have taken Carla off of him at some point, and he was probably pacing. He had always had a hard time sitting still when he was worked up.

 

“Come on, man. You know you’ll probably end up in jail for the rest of your life if you do anything to him. And that’s if you’re lucky…”

 

“I don’t care!”

 

“Well, I’m sure Cherry does.”

 

The static stopped wavering.

 

“He’s probably gonna need a friend when he wakes up.”

 

Kojiro let out a deep breath before a heavy thud came through the speakers, accompanied by an intense crackle of static before it settled back into a steady drone. 

 

“ … If he even remembers I’m his friend,” Kojiro said shakily, a stark contrast to the vitriol from just seconds ago.

 

Kaoru was a little taken aback. The doctors and nurses had told him he was lucky it wasn’t worse multiple times, but he hadn’t really stopped to consider exactly what that meant. How uncertain things must have been... No wonder Kojiro had been so shaken up-

 

“Hey, c’mon man, don’t think like that. I’m sure he’ll be okay.” 

 

It was quiet for a moment.

 

“You two are close, right? I can't imagine he could forget you permanently… Even if he doesn’t remember at first, we’ll all be there for you guys. Everything will be okay.” 

 

There was rustling and more static before the noise settled down again.

 

“Thanks, man.” Kojiro said, sounding a little choked up. “And thanks for driving us here… I don’t know what I would have done-“

 

“Hey, don’t mention it. I’m glad I could help.”

 

Kojiro sighed and there was more rustling before he spoke up again. “You should go make sure the kids got home alright. I’m gonna stay until… until they can at least give me a real answer.”

 

Shadow seemed to hesitate for a second, then sighed. “Alright. But text me if you guys need anything. I don’t live too far from here so it’s not any trouble.”

 

“Okay. Thanks…”

 

It got quiet after that.

 

Kaoru hesitated for a second, then quickly scrubbed through the rest of the recording, which consisted of another hour of static and background noise, but it seemed Carla’s battery had died before anyone came to talk to Kojiro.

 

Kaoru rubbed his hands over his face. 

 

He was thinking about what he wanted to say to Kojiro when his phone buzzed with a notification.

 

There were several new messages in their group chat, which Kojiro had named.

Sk8 Idiots

 

Reki: Hey guys! Oka is letting us throw a party on the roof at dope sketch tomorrow to celebrate Langa totally kicking Adam’s butt! You should all come!

 

Shadow: Hell yeah! I’ll be there.

 

Joe: Sure thing kid. Want me to cook something?

 

Reki: Yes!!!

 

Langa: Please!

 

Reki: There’s a grill on the roof you could use

 

Miya: I’ll be there if there’s food.

 

Reki: You little jerk >:(

 

Miya: >:P

 

Joe: Alright leave it to me 

 

Reki: Thanks Joe!

 

Langa: Thank you!

Kaoru sighed heavily and put his phone down, annoyed by the inconvenient timing… but then he thought about it for a moment.

 

This was good… Perfect actually. This gave him a day to calm down and get his thoughts in order. Then he could just pull Kojiro aside and talk to him after the party.

 

He picked his phone back up and replied.

 

Cherry: I’ll be there as well.

…

Kaoru took a deep breath, standing at the starting line on top of the mountain, wearing his Cherry Blossom outfit.

 

It was almost midnight on a weekday, so he was the only person there… or, so he thought.

 

“How’d I know I’d find you here?”

 

Kaoru froze. Even after rarely hearing it for three years, he’d know that voice anywhere. He slowly turned around.

 

He hadn’t tried to cut ties with Kojiro after things got awkward that summer. They still talked occasionally. But Kaoru had been… busy.

 

And so had Kojiro. Kaoru knew he had changed, he’d seen the pictures on social media, but it was different seeing him in person. He was huge, a solid wall of toned muscle, which he had on full display, only wearing sweatpants and sneakers. His hair was also longer, wavy, handsome- 

 

Kaoru mentally scratched that last one.

 

But Kaoru realized as he looked at him, that his gentle eyes and kind smile were exactly the same as they’d always been

 

Then, Kojiro’s smile shifted into a playful smirk as he flexed his arms. “Like what you see?”

 

Kaoru blinked, then rolled his eyes. “I’m just shocked that you found some way to transform into a gorilla since the last time I saw you.”

 

“Wh- a gorilla!? You take that back!”

 

Kaoru put his free hand on his hip. “Get over here and make me.”

 

“Wh… What?”

 

“Race me. If you win, I’ll take it back.”

 

Kojiro blinked, then shook his head, smirking a bit.

 

“And if you somehow manage to beat me?” Kojiro asked, already lining up at the start.

 

Kaoru smirked. “Then you better get used to being called “gorilla,” gorilla.” 

They were both out of breath by the time they reached the bottom of the mountain, but Kaoru had won by the length of his board.

 

“That… wasn’t fair…” Kojiro complained, lying on his back next to Kaoru. “I’m still jet-lagged… and why the hell are you riding a freaking computer on wheels!?” 

 

“I can’t help it… if you accepted a challenge you couldn’t win-” Kaoru said, sitting beside him. “-and there’s no rules here, so I can use whatever kind of skateboard I want… you gorilla.”

 

Kojiro frowned at him, then slowly smiled and started laughing.

 

Kaoru blinked, then frowned a bit. “What?”

 

Kojiro sighed, then looked up at him, still smiling. “It’s just good to be back.”

 

Kaoru had to look away, an overwhelming sense of warmth spreading through his chest as he realized it was almost like Kojiro had never left.

 

“So, how long are you staying?” he asked, trying to sound casual.

 

“Eh, It’ll probably be a little while before I’ll be able to afford to go on any big vacations or anything.”

 

Kaoru frowned at him. “What?”

 

Kojiro smiled. “I’m back.”

 

Kaoru just stared at him, feeling a bit breathless, his eyes wide. “You’re… back?”

 

“Don’t cry.”

 

Kaoru blinked, then scowled. “I’m not gonna cry, you moron!” he exclaimed, ignoring the fact that he did feel a bit choked up.

 

Kojiro laughed. “It’s so good to see you, Kaoru.”

 

Kaoru looked away. “You’re still a sap, I see.”

 

“Well, at least I don’t look like a princess.”

 

Kaoru scowled a bit and finally pulled his mask down. “I do not!” 

 

Kojiro just stared at him.

 

“What?”

 

“Your piercings…”

 

Kaoru laughed a bit. “You’re just noticing?”

 

“Shut up, it’s dark.” 

 

Kaoru sighed. “They’re a hassle when you can’t wear them all the time. Most of the holes have closed.”

 

“Hm. Well, the new look suits you too.”

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes, but felt his face heat up a bit.

 

“So… what’s with the futuristic robot board?” Kojiro asked as he sat up.

 

Kaoru smiled proudly and held up his skateboard. “She’s my newest model. I’ve almost perfected the design.”

 

Kojiro raised an eyebrow. “ She? Is this why you randomly decided to double major in computer science?”

 

“No… But it is proving to be helpful with skating. I’m going to be ready to face him.”

 

“Him?”

 

“Adam. I’ve heard rumors that he’s back.”

 

Kojiro just stared at him for a second, then frowned. “And you think he’ll just… agree to race you now?”

 

Kaoru huffed. " You know he won’t be able to stay away from S. And maybe you were right. Maybe his family forced him to cut ties with us. But regardless, when he comes back, I’m going to challenge him. He still owes me a race.”

 

Kojiro sighed. “You don’t even know if he still skates…”

 

“Oh come on. We both know him. He’ll show up eventually.”

 

“We knew him… He’s been gone for six years.”

 

“So have you .”

 

Kojiro just gawked at him for a moment, then scowled. “That’s not the-!”

 

He stopped himself, staying quiet for a moment, then took a deep breath and stood up. 

 

“I hope you're right.” He put his skateboard down and placed his foot on top of it. “I should get going… I’ll see you around.”

 

Kaoru frowned. “Wait, but you just- Kojiro!”

 

But he was already gone.

 

 

…

Kaoru was a bit nervous as he emerged from the stairs onto the roof of Dope Sketch.

 

He hadn’t fully considered that he’d have to deal with seeing Kojiro during the party before they could talk. And he hadn’t fully figured out the talking aspect either… but he was still determined to try.

 

Everyone else was already there, Kojiro hard at work at the grill while everyone else was gathered around a picnic table.

 

He just stood there for a second before Reki noticed him.

 

“Hey, Cherry!” 

 

Kojiro immediately turned to look at him, then quickly went back to work.

 

Kaoru tried not to read into it even as his chest tightened up.

 

He went to sit at the table and congratulated Langa on his victory.

Surprisingly, things were going well and Kaoru was actually having a good time as everyone discussed the race, skating in general, and how good Kojiro’s food was.

 

He even talked to Kojiro when he was done cooking. He smiled and laughed with him like everything was normal. But Kaoru could see it in his eyes. He was upset- No, not just upset… he felt guilty. Even though he had nothing to feel guilty about.

 

Kaoru was honestly considering pulling him aside before the party ended. Anything to get rid of that look in his eyes-

 

But then, they all looked up at the sound of helicopter blades directly above them.

 

Even before Adam jumped out, the word “LOVE” spelled in big, red letters on the bottom of the helicopter was a dead giveaway.

 

Everyone scattered right before Adam landed with a gust of wind that knocked everyone back and sent several tables flying.

 

Except for Langa, who somehow just continued eating, and Reki, who was clinging onto his arm.

 

Kaoru had fallen back against the railing and suddenly realized he was doing the same to Kojiro, who was on his knees, straddling Kaoru’s legs, his hands braced against the railing on either side of Kaoru’s head, like he was trying to shield him.

 

Kaoru blushed and quickly let go of his arm as the fabric of the parachute settled over them.

 

Kojiro just stared at him with wide eyes for a second, but before Kaoru could say anything, Kojiro’s expression shifted into angry scowl and he quickly pushed the fabric away before standing and turning to glare at Adam.

 

Adam paraded over to where Langa was still sitting, holding a bouquet of roses. “Why, hello there, little-“

 

“Are you serious!?”

 

Everyone turned to stare at Kojiro, who was absolutely fuming.

 

“You could have killed someone!” 

 

Adam laughed. “Don’t be so dramatic, Joe. I simply wanted to congratulate little Langa here on a race well won, since I didn’t get to do so the night of,” he said, turning his attention back to Langa and offering him the flowers.

 

Langa took them unceremoniously. “Thanks,” he said before putting them down and taking another bite of his burger.

 

Reki’s eye twitched as he stared down at Langa. “Seriously..?”

 

Kojiro crossed his arms, still glaring daggers at Adam. “Well, it’s good to know you still haven’t changed one bit…”  

 

“Of course I have. I understand now-“

 

“The only reason you should be here is to apologize to Kaoru!”

 

Kaoru blinked, then frowned. “Kojiro…” he warned, slowly getting back on his feet.

 

Adam looked genuinely confused. “For what?”

 

“ For what!? For nearly killing him!”

 

“Kojiro!”

 

Adam sighed and walked over to them. “There you go again being dramatic… Cherry should have known better than anyone what he was getting into. He knows exactly how rough my love can be.”

 

He smirked and turned his attention to Kaoru. “Don’t you, Blossom?” 

 

Kaoru blushed, shocked that Adam would even acknowledge their past relationship… but he finally looked away and crossed his arms. 

 

“ Enough. Don’t talk about that here… ”  he growled under his breath.

 

Kojiro gaped at him, looking back and forth between them a few times.

 

Adam sighed and turned his back to them. “Well, if that’s all, then I’m done with-“

 

“I challenge you to a beef.” Kojiro growled.

 

It got uncomfortably quiet.

 

Kaoru was pretty sure his brain short-circuited. He just stared at Kojiro, unable to speak.

 

“Oh?” Adam turned back around. “What makes you think I’d agree to that now?”

 

“I want revenge.”

 

Adam raised an eyebrow. “For..?”

 

“ Everything you’ve done to him.”

 

Kaoru blinked. “What!? You can’t just-“

 

“And say I did agree… what would we be betting?” Adam asked.

 

“If I win, you have to apologize for how much you’ve hurt him.”

 

Kaoru scowled. “Hold on! I don’t-”

 

“Hmm…” Adam looked Kojiro up and down, circling him a bit. “I’ll admit, your passion is intriguing… but ultimately, it’s not really directed at me , now is it?”

 

Kojiro just glared at him.

 

Adam started to walk away. “Sorry to disappoint, but the answer is-“

 

“You almost took him from me…” Kojiro growled.

 

Kaoru blinked, then gripped tightly onto Kojiro’s wrist, hoping to snap him out of whatever the hell this was that had come over him. 

 

“Kojiro , stop it.”

 

Adam stopped and turned around, raising an eyebrow at him. “Oh? What do you mean by that ?”

 

Kojiro pulled away from Kaoru and stepped closer to Adam. 

 

“He was in a coma for two days… They couldn’t tell me for sure if he would remember anything… if he would even wake up! ”

 

Kojiro reached out and grabbed Adam by the front of his jacket.

 

Almost everyone reacted, multiple voices all overlapping.

 

“Kojiro-!”

 

“Woah, woah woah-!”

 

“Joe, stop-!”

 

“Easy, man! Don’t-“

 

Kojiro ignored all of them, pulling Adam a bit closer and lowering his voice. “Of course, I know you don’t care about that… so either accept my challenge or get the fuck out of here, right now, before I throw you off the roof…”

 

Adam just looked at him for a moment, then sighed heavily. “Alright. I can take a hint, Joe.”

 

Kojiro scowled, but let go of him slowly.

 

Adam made a signal with his hand and the helicopter returned shortly after, dropping a ladder.

 

He unclipped his harness from the parachute and attached it to the ladder instead, then hesitated and looked back at Kojiro.

 

“I accept your challenge. I’ll be back at S this weekend. Be there. I won’t reschedule…”

 

With that, he stepped onto the ladder and was pulled back up.

 

It was quiet after the helicopter left, Kaoru and Kojiro just staring at each other.

 

Finally, Kaoru growled, already reaching for his fan. “What the hell did you just-“

 

He was cut off when Miya launched himself at him, hugging him around his waist and burying his face in his side.

 

Kaoru held his arms out awkwardly, unsure what to do.

 

“Miya, I’m-“

 

He paused again when Reki and Langa joined him, trapping Kaoru in a group hug. 

 

He sighed and finally just put his arms around them before scowling at Kojiro one last time.

He would deal with him later.

 

 

 

Chapter 8: The Impasse

 

 

 

“Would you just listen to me, you moron!?” Kaoru growled as he followed Kojiro down the sidewalk.

 

“Go home, Kaoru. You shouldn’t be walking this much.”

 

“Well, I wouldn’t have to if you’d stop ignoring me!”

 

Kojiro laughed as they approached Sia la Luce. “That’s rich, coming from you…”

 

Kaoru scowled. “What’s that supposed to mean!?”

 

“I think you know .” Kojiro muttered as he unlocked the door.

 

Kaoru blinked, then shook his head. “Call it off!” he demanded.

 

“No.” Kojiro growled, trying to close the door behind him.

 

Kaoru stopped him, grabbing the doorknob with his good hand.

 

Kojiro scowled. “I didn’t try to stop you!”

 

“That was different!”

 

“How!?”

 

“It… it just was !”

 

They stood there, glaring at each other for a moment, then Kojiro sighed.

 

“I have work to do, Kaoru. Go home.”

 

“Kojiro-”

 

“I’ll see you at S.”

 

Kojiro pulled the door closed and locked it.

 

Kaoru just stood there and stared at the door for a moment, then finally stormed back to Dope Sketch to get his car and go home.

Kaoru cursed under his breath as he finally made it back into his office at his studio.

 

“That stupid, oafish, single-brain celled, gigolo, gorilla-“

 

He knew, somewhere deep down, that he was overreacting a bit. Kojiro had just shown up to his calligraphy exhibit. He hadn’t actually done anything wrong. At least, not initially…

 

Still, Kaoru was furious when he noticed Kojiro in line... 

 

With a girl on each arm.

 

They hadn’t really talked since the party several days ago. Not that Kaoru hadn’t tried.

 

He’d sent countless texts, just asking to talk at first. When those went unanswered, he started sending messages telling Kojiro to call off the race, ranging from name-calling to threats. All of those were ignored as well.

 

Kaoru had started to worry. That Kojiro was avoiding him. That he’d actually ruined their relationship this time. That something had happened to him-

 

But now here he was. Back to hooking up with women like nothing happened. 

 

It took every ounce of Kaoru’s self control to remain calm when they reached the front of the line, but he managed it, keeping a friendly, professional demeanor as the two women asked him for an autograph.

 

He obliged and they thanked him, clearly thrilled.

 

Kojiro put his arms back around them before finally looking at Kaoru with a very polite, very fake smile. 

 

“Thanks.”

 

Kaoru felt his eye twitch. “Wait...” 

 

The three of them paused.

 

Kaoru picked his brush back up. “Let me do one for you as well.”

 

Kojiro raised an eyebrow at him.

 

Kaoru smiled sweetly and grabbed a fresh sheet of paper. “It’s… the least I can do.”

 

“Alright… Thanks?” Kojiro said, letting go of the girls and stepping forward a bit.

 

The girls just continued to talk quietly with each other, gushing about having his autograph, while Kaoru took his time writing out a special message.

 

To little Kojiro: Dimwit.

 

He handed it over and Kojiro just stared at it for a moment before looking back up at him.

 

Kaoru smiled innocently.

 

Kojiro scowled and tore up the paper. “You asshole!” he exclaimed before reaching across the table and grabbing him, pulling him closer.

 

Kaoru was a bit surprised, but he just glared right back at him.

 

“After everything - That’s how you- How dare you- !”

 

Kaoru almost managed to stop himself, just because they were in public, but their faces were only inches apart and… his frustration won out. 

 

He dragged his brush across Kojiro’s nose and up around his eyes.

 

Kojiro froze for a moment, then finally let go of him. “What the fuck !?”

 

Kaoru couldn’t help smirking a bit when he saw how ridiculous Kojiro looked, and the fact that the girls were nowhere to be seen was also a plus.

 

Security finally stepped in, two guards moving to stand in between them. “Sir, we’re going to have to ask you to leave…”

 

Kojiro just blinked, like he’d forgotten where they were for a moment.

 

Kaoru sighed. 

 

“That won’t be necessary…” He said as he looked through one of his bags, finding a rag and a bottle of soap that worked well for getting ink off of skin.

 

“Come with me. I’ll-“

 

“Don’t bother,” Kojiro growled, turning and storming off towards the restrooms.

 

Kaoru blinked and just watched him leave before smiling at the very confused security guards. “I’ll be right back…” 

 

 

He walked into the bathroom and found Kojiro scrubbing his face with paper towels over the sink.

 

“It might leave stains if you do it like that…”

 

Kojiro huffed. “Go away, Kaoru.”

 

Kaoru ignored him and walked over. “Just let me help-“

 

“Why!? You’re the one who did it in the first place!” Kojiro snapped. 

 

Kaoru blinked, a little taken aback by the actual bite in his tone, then frowned.

 

“Oh, get over yourself! You didn’t have to react like a wild animal and scare them off! Besides, I’m sure you can easily find some other random women to-“

 

“I don’t care about them! Why do you!?”

 

“What are you talking about?”

 

“Why does it bother you!? Or do you just get some sick satisfaction out of making me suffer!?”

 

Kaoru bristled and blurted out, “Maybe I just feel bad for those poor girls because I know what it’s like being used by a monster ! ”

 

Kojiro froze for a second, then clenched his fists. “Don’t you dare. Don’t you dare compare me to him! ”

 

Kaoru scowled, the built up anger and anxiety from the last several days fueling him, blinding him. 

 

“ Why not? You did assault me in my own house!”

 

“ What!?-”

 

“And then you just left! ”

 

“I just- You told me to-”

 

“And now you refuse to listen to me! You’re trying to fight my battles for me like I’m some damsel in distress even though I don’t want you to!”

 

Kojiro scowled a bit. “That’s not what I’m doing!”

 

Kaoru let out a sharp laugh. “And now you’re lying to me! You really are exactly like him!”

 

“How could you-!!”

 

“You know what? Go ahead and race him! Please ! I’d be better off without you around!”

 

Kojiro just stared at him and the genuine hurt on his face finally snapped Kaoru out of it. 

 

What was he saying?   Yes, he was angry, but Kojiro didn't deserve any of that...

 

Kojiro finally just shook his head and turned to grab more paper towels.

 

Kaoru started to say something, to apologize, but Kojiro spoke before he could, catching Kaoru’s eye in the mirror.

 

“Well then I hope you have fun being alone for the rest of your life, you asshole, ” he growled.

 

Kaoru froze.

 

It was dead silent.

 

Kojiro looked down and his shoulders sank a bit. “Kaoru, I… I didn’t-“

 

Kaoru slammed the bottle of soap down next to the sink, making Kojiro jump slightly.

 

“Go fuck yourself…” Kaoru growled before storming out. 

 

“Kaoru, wait!-“

 

He let the door slam shut behind him.

Kaoru growled to himself and collapsed at his desk.

 

It wasn’t like they’d never fought before. It didn’t matter that this one was… intense . Things would be fine. Eventually.

 

If Kojiro even survives Adam.

 

He groaned a bit and rubbed his hands over his face. He was being stupid. Kojiro was built like a tank. Adam would probably humiliate him a bit, trip him up somehow and make him fall on his ass, but he’d have a much harder time hurting Joe like he’d hurt Cherry. He would be fine .

 

Kaoru sighed. Maybe doing an exhibit so soon hadn’t been such a good idea. His ankle and his wrist ached and he felt absolutely drained… and the whole thing had only lasted until lunchtime.

 

Kaoru shook his head. He just needed to get through the rest of the day and go home, get some rest. He had a long day ahead of him tomorrow.

 

It was later in the evening before Kaoru finally got everything in order and packed up some things so he could just work from home for a while.

 

He headed out to his car, pausing for a moment when he noticed a certain green-haired gorilla leaning back against the side of it.

 

Kaoru scowled a bit as he walked over. “What are you doing here?”

 

Kojiro didn’t look at him, but held out the bottle of soap that Kaoru had left in the bathroom. “Just wanted to give this back. It worked.”

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes, but took it. “Idiot. I don’t need this back. I have plenty of it.”

 

Kojiro just shrugged, keeping his eyes on the ground. 

 

Kaoru leaned back against his car as well, fiddling with the cap on the bottle while the two of them just stood there for a moment.

 

“Want some carbonara?”

 

Kaoru frowned a bit, tempted to say no. Pasta wasn’t a good enough apology for how stressed he’d been the last several days, not to mention what Kojiro had said just hours ago-

 

But then his stomach decided that was the perfect time to growl, loudly.

 

Kojiro chuckled a bit and Kaoru huffed.

 

“Shut up… Did you walk here?”

 

“Yeah.”

 

“Then get in the car.” 

“Here.” Kojiro said, placing a plate in front of Kaoru at his usual spot at the bar.

 

Kaoru took a few bites, then just mindlessly pushed the noodles around on his plate, finding he didn’t have much of an appetite despite being hungry.

 

“What’s wrong with it?” Kojiro asked.

 

Kaoru frowned and looked up at him. “Call off the race.”

 

Kojiro blinked, then sighed heavily. “ No. ”

 

Kaoru dropped his fork and rubbed his hands over his face.

 

“Say by some miracle you do win. I don’t want his empty apology!”

 

Kojiro huffed. “Gee. Thanks for the vote of confidence…”

 

“You’re doing this for nothing , you stupid -“

 

“He hurt you.”

 

Kaoru scowled. “Yes! And he’s probably going to do the same to you!“

 

Kojiro shook his head. “I’m not just talking about the race .”

 

Kaoru blinked, then scoffed and crossed his arms. “Oh, please . Don’t tell me the big, aggressive playboy can’t handle some bdsm…” 

 

Kojiro just gawked at him for a moment, his face flushing. “Wh- What..? That’s- I…”

 

In spite of himself, Kaoru couldn’t help smirking a little bit at seeing Kojiro so flustered.  

 

Kojiro finally snapped out of it, scowling as he leaned across the bar. “Of course that’s not it! God, Kaoru, we were in high school. What did he even-“ Kojiro stopped himself and backed off, looking away.

 

Kaoru just frowned, thinking for a moment. He never thought he’d even consider telling Kojiro anything about him and Adam, but if it might finally talk him out of this ridiculous beef-

 

“You really want to know?”

 

Kojiro just stared at him for a second. “What?”

 

“I’ll tell you.” 

 

Kojiro blinked. “Kaoru… You don’t have to-”

 

“You won’t just listen to me-” Kaoru growled, cutting him off, “-so I’m going to tell you what you’re actually challenging him over.”

 

Kojiro frowned a bit, but didn’t say anything.

 

Kaoru looked down at his hands, clasped together on top of the bar.

 

“There was always something new he wanted to try… Some new way to… torture me. And I knew, once he got started, there was a good chance there’d be no stopping him.”

 

He paused, taking a breath before continuing.

 

“But I still agreed to it. Every time… Even though I knew he’d probably take it too far. Because I still liked it. Even when it hurt. I mean, actually hurt. And he wouldn’t stop… I just … I still -“ 

 

“Kaoru…”

 

Kaoru blinked and looked up.

 

Kojiro looked at him, eyebrows drawn together, lips pursed. He reached out and opened his mouth, then closed it, drawing his hand back.

 

Kaoru huffed and looked back down at the bar before he continued.

 

“He’d take care of me after. Tell me that he just couldn’t control himself because I was so special to him. Because he was so in love with me-“

He meant to stop there. That was all he needed to say to move on and make his point… but it was almost like a dam bursting from years of building pressure.

 

”-and I just… believed him. Like a complete idiot. I believed him and I thought it was all more than worth it to be that special to someone. And then he just… up and left.”

 

“Kaoru. That- that’s not-”

 

Kaoru laughed humorlessly. “I know. I was stupid. And I still hoped that he… at least thought he meant it. Messed up as it was. I hoped that I meant something to him. But that’s on me. For being stupid enough to think that he actually cared about me.”

 

Kojiro placed his hands on the bar, leaning across it. “That’s not what I was trying to say! You aren’t stupid, Kaoru! He manipulated you. That’s not your-“

 

“Don’t…” Kaoru said, turning away from him. “Just… Just don’t.”

 

“Kaoru-”

 

Kaoru looked up at him. “That was just how things were between us. We were both young and stupid. We didn’t know what we were doing… We just… didn’t even talk about it.”

 

Kojiro took a deep breath, clearly struggling to stay calm. “That doesn’t make what he did okay…”

 

Kaoru scowled. “That doesn’t matter now! That’s not the point! I don’t need you to-“

 

“Doesn’t matter!? Kaoru he… he hurt you! And clearly it still bothers you. How can you say it doesn’t-”

 

“Enough!” Kaoru growled, scowling.

 

It got uncomfortably quiet for several long minutes.

 

“Just call off the race.” Kaoru finally said, his voice quieter and more pleading than he’d intended. 

 

Kojiro was quiet for a long moment.

 

“...I can’t.”

 

“Why not!?”

 

Kojiro looked him in the eye. “I don't think you need me to do this for you. I want to race him. To work this out on the track, for myself. Don’t act like you don’t understand. Like you wouldn’t feel the same if he'd done all of that to me.”

 

Kaoru just stared at him for a second, then clenched his fists and stood up. 

 

“Fine. Whatever... I’m going home. You'd better start practicing instead of messing around with random women..."

 

“Kaoru-”

 

But Kaoru was already out the door.

 

 

 

Chapter 9: Joe vs. Adam

 

 

 

Kaoru scowled as he parked his car right next to Kojiro’s motorcycle. Because of course they came to S at the exact same time without even trying.

 

Kaoru got out of the car and they just stared at each other for a moment, then started walking together in silence.

 

They both stopped before making it to the main area behind the starting line.

 

Kaoru hesitated, then took his bracelet off. He looked away as he offered it to Kojiro.

 

“Here.”

 

Kojiro frowned. “I mean… Not that I don’t appreciate it, but you know I can’t really do anything with it.”

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes. “Obviously. She's just for luck, you moron.”

 

Kojiro raised an eyebrow, but took it. “Is it for luck or so you can monitor me?”

 

Kaoru scowled a bit. “Can’t it be both?”

 

Kojiro smiled just slightly. “Weren’t you wearing it when you raced him? I’m not sure how lucky it is,” he said even as he put it on.

 

“Well, she survived , didn’t she?”

 

Kojiro looked at the bracelet a bit closer, no doubt noticing the little scratches that were still there.

 

“Yeah… that’s true,” Kojiro said, wrapping his other hand around it and holding it close to his chest for a few seconds. “Thanks.”

 

 Kaoru was grateful he had his mask on, feeling his face heat up a bit. 

 

“Kaoru… I didn’t mean- I shouldn’t have-“

 

Kaoru held up his hand. “If you have to do this, then go. Before he decides to call it off. We’ll talk after,” he said firmly.

 

Kojiro sighed, but nodded and shrugged his jacket off before offering it to him. “...Hold onto this for me?”

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes. He hesitated for a second, then tied his robe around his waist before taking the jacket and putting it on.

 

Kojiro just stared at him.

 

Kaoru huffed and looked away, crossing his arms. “Well? Go get revenge… or whatever stupid thing it is you’re trying to do here.”

 

Kojiro chuckled a bit, though it sounded a little hollow. “I will… don’t worry.”

Kaoru followed behind Kojiro until he got to the front of the crowd before hanging back and watching him walk to the start, where Adam was waiting, already looking bored.

 

Kaoru overheard a couple of their fans whispering to each other, asking why he was wearing Joe’s jacket. Or why Joe was wearing his bracelet. He ignored them.

 

“Hey! Cherry!”

 

Cherry looked to see Reki and the rest of their friends gathered off to the side. He walked over to them.

 

“Hey man!” Reki greeted him.

 

“You doing alright?” Shadow asked.

 

Kaoru turned his attention back to Kojiro, who was saying something to Adam.

 

“I’m fine. Why wouldn’t I be?”

 

“Because your… friend is about to face Adam…” Miya said matter-of-factly, putting air-quotes around “friend .”

 

Kaoru blinked and looked back at them, then scowled a bit. “He’s not my… friend”

 

Langa blinked. “I thought you were friends? I mean, he’s letting you borrow his jacket.”

 

It almost made it worse that it sounded like he was being sincere.

 

Shadow and Miya snickered a bit and Kaoru frowned, eyes closed, trying to ignore them.

 

“Don’t worry.”

 

Kaoru opened his eyes to find Reki standing next to him.

 

“Joe’s a beast. He’s got this,” he said confidently, smiling.

 

Kaoru blinked, then looked up at Kojiro, who was lining up at the start. 

 

Kaoru felt his heart skip a beat when Kojiro quickly, so quickly that he almost missed it, kissed his bracelet before getting ready to take off, a determined look on his face. 

 

“I… I know.” Kaoru said softly, pulling the jacket around himself a bit tighter.

 

Before anyone could say anything else, the countdown started. 

 

“Alright, let’s get this over with…” Adam said, loud enough for everyone to hear.

 

Kaoru frowned.

 

Kojiro ignored Adam, his eyes forward.

 

Kaoru watched as the signal was given and they both took off down the mountain. He watched until they were out of sight, then ran back to his car as fast as he could with his boot. 

 

“Cherry??”

 

“Hey, where are you going!?”

 

He ignored them.

 

“Carla.” He said as he placed the board on the passengers side

 

“Yes master?”

 

“Play live audio from the bracelet…” he said as he climbed into the drivers side and pulled the video from the S website up on his phone.

 

“Yes, master.”

 

Kaoru put his phone on the dash where he could see it, then took off down a road that followed alongside the track.

Kaoru frowned as he looked at his phone.

 

He had stopped at the halfway point, where the course took a sharp right turn, his car still running, ready to follow them the rest of the way once they caught up…

 

But something felt… wrong.

 

Kojiro was skating aggressively.  

 

That itself wasn’t new, of course… and he was only countering Adam’s moves so far… but still. There was malice behind his movements as they clashed at various points along the course. It didn’t feel like Joe… like Kojiro…

 

Adam swerved to try and grab Kojiro again, seemingly to pull him into a spin. 

 

Rather than trying to avoid it, Kojiro grabbed Adam’s hands and spun him around, roughly, nearly throwing him off balance.

 

But Adam recovered quickly, smirking.

 

“…My my… Where have you been hiding this, Joe?” he asked, sounding mildly amused as they raced neck-and-neck. “It’s rather cute~”

 

Kojiro scoffed and ignored him.

 

“Hmm… Giving me the cold shoulder? Have I hurt your feelings?”

 

“ Please… you never cared about my feelings… or his.”

 

Adam sighed, immediately sounding bored again. “Yes, I know this is all about dear little Blossom for you…”

 

Kojiro scowled, but didn’t respond.

 

“Well, this was a bit more fun than Cherry, I guess… but it’s already getting old.”

 

Adam pulled even further ahead as they approached the midway point, where Kaoru was waiting, then spun around-

 

He was still on his board, arms out…

 

Kojiro scowled and just sped up.

 

“What are you doing, you idiot!?” Kaoru yelled at his phone.

 

Kaoru looked up just in time to watch it happen live.

 

Kojiro didn’t even try to dodge, instead, he shifted just slightly to the left at the last possible second, latched onto Adam’s right arm, and barreled ahead.

 

There was a cracking sound and Adam cried out as Kojiro yanked him backwards.

 

Kojiro used the change in momentum and shifted his weight perfectly through a tight spin, pulling Adam off his board before letting go and sending him crashing to the ground.

 

Kojiro had positioned himself perfectly in the turn to simply take off down the straightaway… but instead he stopped.

 

It was dead silent, everyone in the crowd seemed to be collectively holding their breath.

 

“ Get up. ” Kojiro growled.

 

Kaoru could only stare in shock. This was not Joe. And it certainly wasn’t his best friend… What the hell was he doing ..?

 

Adam groaned and slowly pushed himself up, his right arm clearly injured to some extent judging by how he favored his left.

 

Regardless, he laughed, breathing heavily as he stood up. “You want to keep going, do you?”

 

Kojiro scowled at him, then simply continued down the mountain at a leisurely pace, waiting for Adam to catch up.

 

Adam just watched him for a moment, then slowly rolled his shoulders before taking off after him.

 

Kaoru could only sit there in stunned silence for a moment, then he snapped out of it and sped down to the finish line.

 

 

 

The second half was more of a fight than a race… Adam and Joe continued to exchange blows, Adam using his usual tricks, though he avoided using his right arm too much, and Joe countering with brute strength. Both of them were scratched and bruised, but they kept going. 

 

Adam laughed. “I always knew you could keep up physically. But I thought you were far too wholesome to ever really try it.”

 

Kojiro scoffed and sped up, passing Adam in the next turn.

 

Adam sighed. 

 

“Still, I can tell you’re not into this. Not really ,” he taunted, catching up to him again. “So, why are you doing it, hmm? You really want revenge for little Blossom that badly? Or are you trying to prove yourself?”

 

Kojiro tried to grab him.

 

Adam chuckled and easily dodged. “No… You’re just angry. Because I did take him from you.”

 

“What??” Kojiro growled.

 

Adam smirked. “I could see it all over your face back on the roof. It finally clicked for you, exactly why he’s too afraid to accept your feelings . And now, you have someone to blame.”

 

Kaoru frowned. What the hell was Adam talking about? Did Kojiro really think that?

 

“I do feel a bit bad about it, believe it or not,” Adam continued, “I mean, I always knew that you loved him. It was painfully obvious-“

 

No... Adam was just trying to get in Kojiro’s head… there was no way that was true.

 

“You want to know the best part? He loved you too . It was tragic , really… but then again, that was part of what made him so fun… for a little while…”

 

Kaoru scowled, feeling his face heat up a bit. Everything else Adam had said was a bunch of nonsense, so hopefully Kojiro wouldn’t read into it-

 

“Shut up, you bastard!” 

 

Kaoru blinked, barely even recognizing Kojiro’s voice.

 

Adam stayed just behind him, out of reach. “I assumed you two had to have figured it out at some point after I left… but I guess I took things a bit too far…”

 

Kojiro sped up even more.

 

Adam smirked, easily keeping up. “My little Blossom is still so hung up over me that he can’t even see what’s obvious. I broke the poor-“

 

Kojiro dropped back, then swerved, locking his board against Adam’s and grabbing him by his jacket.

 

“You son of a bitch! Don’t you dare -“

 

Adam ducked down and maneuvered out of Kojiro’s grasp, spinning around and skating behind him before pulling ahead as they approached the warehouse.

 

“Am I wrong? Then what’s stopping you?”

 

Kojiro blinked, then scowled as both of them raced onto one of the catwalks, Adam just ahead of Joe.

 

Kaoru was going to go into the warehouse to catch the end of the race, but… He couldn’t move, his eyes glued to the screen, hanging onto every word.

 

“Admit it, Joe… you know I shattered him far beyond repair. That’s why you wanted to race me so badly. Why you’re trying to take it out on me. Why you’re too afraid to really go for it when it comes to your precious little-”

 

Kojiro scowled and jumped up onto the railing before grabbing Adam’s shoulder-

 

Kaoru could see what he was going for. It wasn’t a bad idea, trying to pull Adam back and propel himself forward so he could drop down in front. 

 

However, the next section of railing ahead of them was rusted out and mangled, leaving a long gap in the rails, meaning he didn’t have much time or space to pull it off.  

 

Also, Kojiro either didn’t realize that he was grabbing the same shoulder that he’d injured several minutes ago, or he severely underestimated the amount of pain that it would cause.

 

Adam cried out and dropped his shoulder, causing him to drift suddenly towards Kojiro. Towards the gap in the railing.

 

Kojiro reeled, but managed to right himself. 

 

The railing creaked dangerously under his weight as he approached the gap, and there was nowhere for him to go-

 

It all happened within a second or two, but time almost seemed to slow down and speed up all at once.

 

Kojiro pushed Adam the other way, just before the dilapidated railing gave out under his board.

 

Adam fell, clutching his shoulder, but remained on the catwalk.

 

Kojiro, however, fell across the gap and slammed into the top rail on the other side. 

There was a loud snap and the entire section of railing gave out, sending Kojiro falling… and crashing to the ground below with a heavy thud and the loud clang of metal hitting concrete.

 

 

 

Chapter 10: Please Stay

 

 

 

Kaoru fought his way through the shocked crowd, pushing and shoving people out of the way. 

 

He had to be okay.

 

The part Kojiro fell off of wasn’t that high off the ground... He had to be okay. 

 

Then, finally, Kaoru could see Kojiro.

 

He was on his side, facing away from the main crowd, broken pieces of rusted metal scattered around and on top of him.

 

Kaoru ran over and fell to his knees, pushing away the railing that had fallen on him. “Kojiro! Hey, can you hear me?? Are you-”

 

He carefully rolled Kojiro onto his back… then froze, unable to process what he was seeing for a second.

 

There was a thin piece of the railing lodged just under the ray of Kojiro’s sun tattoo… the one that curved and stretched over onto his chest. There was blood… pooling around the metal and running down the side of his pec in a slow stream.

 

Kaoru felt dizzy.

 

He couldn’t remember ever feeling squeamish about blood. It was something he’d gotten used to, being a skateboarder. Accidents were a given… But this wasn’t like anything he’d seen before.

 

He just sat there, staring, trying to fathom how-  

 

Then he remembered Kojiro falling, slamming into the mangled railing- 

 

Kojiro groaned and slowly opened his eyes, blinking a couple times. 

 

“Ka-Kaoru..?” He winced and took a shaky, gasping breath. “W… What-”

 

He lifted his head just enough to look down at himself, then paused, looking very pale all of a sudden. “Oh…”

 

He let out a weak laugh and shakily reached towards the wound as he let his head fall back. “That… That’s not… good,”  he said breathlessly.

 

Kaoru finally snapped out of it and swatted Kojiro’s hand away. 

 

“ Wh- Ow-” Kojiro mumbled.

 

Kaoru shook his head, untying his robe from his waist and carefully placing the fabric around the metal as he suddenly remembered that he actually did have some knowledge about what to do. And what not to do.

 

“Idiot! Don’t pull it out! Do you want to bleed out!?"

 

Kojiro had the audacity to pout at him. “ I… I know… that… I… wasn’t gonna -"

 

Kaoru placed his hands over the fabric, careful not to touch the piece of metal.

 

Kojiro let out a strangled cry and weakly grabbed onto Kaoru’s sleeve.

 

Kaoru winced, but kept his hands in place.

 

“R…Ru…” Kojiro choked out.

 

“I know, I’m… I’m sorry. Are you ok-” Kaoru quickly realized that was an incredibly stupid question and corrected himself. “Does anything feel broken? Did you hit your head? Or-“

 

Kojiro turned his head and started coughing.

 

Kaoru stared down at him in horror as little drops of spit and blood splattered onto the concrete.

 

In that moment, Kaoru didn’t care about anything else. Screw the risk to S. The risk to his reputation… to Adam’s… Screw all of it .

 

“Carla, call emergency-”

 

“Cherry!”

 

Kaoru looked up to see Shadow and the kids running towards them.

 

Shadow reached them first, kneeling closer to Kojiro’s feet. “C’mon! Let’s get him to the hospital!”

 

Kaoru blinked, then shook his head. “We shouldn’t move him, we need to-”

 

“K-Kaoru…”

 

Kaoru looked down to find Kojiro staring up at him.

 

“Don’t… get S… shut down… I’ll be… alright. B’sides… we’ll g-get there … faster… this way…”

 

Kaoru bit his lip, but reluctantly nodded. “Okay… okay, we… we need to bandage it… make sure it doesn’t move…”

 

Thankfully, Miya had thought to grab the first-aid kit out of Shadow’s car. Kaoru quickly placed several layers of gauze around the metal and secured it in place with bandages and tape while Shadow propped Kojiro up. Then, Reki and Langa helped them carry him to the car.

 

It obviously hurt. Kojiro winced and clenched his jaw at first, but Kaoru was pretty sure he blacked out after they got him off the ground.

 

Kaoru climbed into the car and knelt down on the floorboard after they laid Kojiro out across the back seats.

 

There was blood soaking through the bandages already. Kaoru cursed under his breath.

 

He put his robe over top of them and pressed down, he could feel the wound pulsing under his hands through the fabric.

 

He felt nauseous again, but he pushed that aside.

 

Kaoru barely even noticed the car moving, focused solely on trying to stop the bleeding as best he could.

 

“R... Ru…”

 

Kaoru looked to see Kojiro staring up at him, his eyes hazy, his body trembling.

 

“It’s okay. You’re gonna be-”

 

“I’m… I’m s-s…sorry-” 

 

Kaoru stared down at him, concerned by the stuttering and how his breaths rattled between his words.

 

“-for the… that stuff I… said… at your… cal…calig- …th-thing… didn’t… didn’t mean it… I’d never-“ 

 

He winced and cut himself off with a dry cough.

 

Kaoru scowled. “Idiot.“ He took a deep breath to calm himself, but still felt tears welling up in his eyes. “I know you didn’t… I didn’t… We were just-”

 

“I’m sorry for… that night… k-kissing you… I didn’t… I didn’t know… never meant to… make you u-uncomfortable.”

 

“That… that doesn’t matter! We’re not doing this right now!”

 

Kojiro shook his head a bit, continuing even though it sounded like every word caused him pain. “M’ sorry… I left… s-s-sorry… you were… alone… m-maybe… if I just… stayed… we… woulda been-” 

 

“Stop…” Kaoru barely whispered, feeling like his heart was ripping itself apart inside his chest. “You’re gonna be fine -“

 

Kojiro turned his head and coughed into the back of the seat, an awful wheezing sound coming from his chest.

 

When it finally subsided, Kojiro swallowed thickly before looking up at Kaoru with wide, glassy eyes.

 

“I love you.”

 

Kaoru’s composure finally crumbled and he let out a choked sob. “Kojiro…”

 

Kojiro continued, his speech getting breathier and shakier.

 

“I know… I… I know… M’ sorry… wish Ad’m wasn’t… wish I could… change things… make him… see…”

 

Kaoru sniffled. “W-What are you even-“

 

Kaoru paused, thinking back to what Adam had said during the race, then shook his head. 

 

“You really think I still-“

 

“You deserve… t’ be happy… wish… I coulda… done… more…”

 

Kaoru just stared down at him for a moment, tears rolling down his face. 

 

He wanted to cup Kojiro’s cheek, stroke his hair, even just wipe the blood and tears off his face- something to comfort him… But he knew he couldn’t take his hands off the wound. 

 

Kaoru finally shook his head and took a deep breath.

 

“Stop talking like you’re- Just stop talking… Stay awake . You’ll be okay. I-“

 

The car jolted a bit and Kojiro closed his eyes tightly, hissing through his teeth.

 

“Hey, hey! It’s alright.” Kaoru said quickly. 

 

Kojiro winced, his eyes fluttering. 

 

“Look at me! Stay awake."

 

Kojiro slowly opened his eyes, but it was like he was looking right through him.

 

“M...Mhm… m… m’ a…wake…”

 

Kaoru could only watch, feeling his stomach drop as Kojiro’s eyes rolled back and closed, his head lolling to the side.

 

“Kojiro..? Koji!?”

 

Kaoru stared down at him for a few seconds, feeling the rapid, shallow rise and fall of his chest under his hands, a million panicked thoughts racing through his head.

What do I do?

Is he going into shock?

Stay calm

He’s still breathing

For now

No, don’t think like that

Well I don’t know what else to do

There’s so much blood

He shouldn’t look this pale

How much further is the hospital

How long has it been

He’s going to d-

Kaoru was snapped out of it when Kojiro let out a soft whimpering sound.

 

Kaoru looked down at him for a moment, took a shaky breath, then leaned forward until his forehead just barely touched Kojiro’s.

 

“I love you too. I- I need you… Stay with me. Please, Kojiro.”

 

It might have just been wishful thinking, but Kaoru thought he felt Kojiro nod ever so slightly.

 

The next hour or so was a bit of a blur. 

 

Kaoru had no idea how much longer they were in the car before they finally made it to the hospital.

 

He remembered several people taking Kojiro away and placing him on a stretcher. He remembered realizing his shoulders, his wrist, and his ankle all ached, and also that he didn’t care. 

 

Kaoru didn’t really recall walking into the hospital, just the rush of people suddenly swarming Kojiro as they wheeled him inside. He didn’t know what they were saying, it was like he was hearing them underwater, but considering the urgency in their tone and how fast they were moving it probably wasn’t anything good.

 

Someone asked him if he was hurt.

 

What a stupid question. Couldn’t they see that didn’t matter right now?

 

Kojiro was wheeled through a set of doors… and Kaoru was stopped from following any further.

 

He was vaguely aware of the pain as his knees crashed into the tile floor.

 

Kaoru just stayed there. People were talking… to him, he was pretty sure… but that didn’t matter. Kojiro was gone. Again. Maybe for good this time. That might have been the last time he ever talked to his best friend… the love of his life.

 

His chest felt tight. He felt sick. He couldn’t breathe. Black spots danced across his vision. Was he dying too?

 

In some dark corner of his brain, he couldn’t help but find it a little bit funny, almost… a very small, silly part of him had always thought they were linked in some way. How could they not be? After all this time… But he never thought it was literal… that it would affect them like this. Had Kojiro felt it too when he was hurt? He hoped not- 

 

Then, he heard familiar voices… Someone… or maybe several someones… helped him up off the floor and ushered him to an uncomfortable chair.

 

Then someone was telling him to breathe… and… asking him what color the walls were?

 

…What?

 

Oh… Oh. He was having a panic attack… That… made a lot more sense. It had been a long time since he’d had one this bad. 

 

But… usually the one asking dumb questions was Kojiro-

 

He tried to focus… and was surprised to find it was actually Reki crouching down in front of him…

 

Huh… How did he know what to do?

 

Kaoru must have asked that out loud because Reki shrugged.

 

“Joe uh… noticed how anxious I was at S one night and taught me this trick. I know it’s kinda weird, but it helps.”

 

“…Oh.”

 

Kaoru answered Reki’s questions about the objects around them until he eventually felt like he could breathe again, but he also felt exhausted… and a bit awkward.

 

“I’m… sorry you had to see that.”

 

Reki shook his head before moving to sit in the next chair over from his. “Don’t be sorry… I think anyone would be scared if this happened to someone they… care about.”

 

Kaoru looked around and frowned a bit. “Weren’t… the others just here..?”

 

“They went to get snacks and drinks. Figured you might need it.”

 

Kaoru nodded, looking down at the floor.

 

It was quiet for a moment.

 

“Joe’s strong… He’ll be okay…”

 

Kaoru just nodded a bit, feeling too numb to give more of a response.

 

The others came back shortly after that.

 

“Hey, man. You feeling better?” Shadow asked, carrying a few plastic bags.

 

Kaoru nodded, though he really wasn’t even sure how he was feeling.

 

“You should probably go get cleaned up.” Miya said quietly.

 

Kaoru frowned a bit, noticing that Miya and Langa both weren’t quite looking at him, then he looked down at himself.

 

Oh.

 

He was covered in blood. Kojiro’s blood…

 

Kaoru nodded slowly and got up. “I’ll… I’ll be back…”

 

 

Kaoru spent several minutes scrubbing the dried blood from his hands. Once he had nearly rubbed his hands raw and finally felt like he had gotten every speck of it off, he moved on to Kojiro’s jacket…

 

There was blood all over the sleeves and some on the front… It must have happened while he was wrapping the bandages… or maybe in the car?

 

It didn’t matter. Kaoru had to get it out.

 

Kojiro would want his jacket back if… when… when he woke up.

 

Kaoru kept repeating it to himself, but it did little to actually ease his anxiety.

 

Kaoru finally went back out to the waiting room with the others, wearing Kojiro’s jacket even though the sleeves were still a bit damp.

 

Miya latched onto his side as soon as he sat back down and Kaoru let him.

 

He was handed some kind of drink that was sugary and salty and disgusting… he drank some of it anyway… He could practically hear Kojiro fussing at him for not staying hydrated…

 

And it only reminded him that he might not get to hear Kojiro worry over him… to hear him say anything ever again.

 

He zoned out after that, only able to focus on the heavy dread that had settled in his chest.

 

Even when a nurse finally came by… All he caught was something about a collapsed lung and blood loss and possibly needing surgery… 

 

Surgery… That meant… Kojiro was alive at least… he wouldn’t need it otherwise-

 

Kaoru nearly jumped out of his skin when he suddenly felt something touch his shoulder and snapped his head up to see what it was.

 

Shadow held his hands up in surrender. “Sorry, man. You were just… spaced out.”

 

Kaoru blinked, suddenly realizing everyone else was standing up... When had Miya moved?

 

“I… Sorry… were you… saying something?”

 

“I’m going to take the kids home… I can give you a ride too if you want.”

 

Kaoru looked back down at the floor. “No. I’m staying. But… thank you.”

 

Shadow looked at him for a second. “Will you be alright here by yourself?”

 

Kaoru nodded, frowning a bit. “I- I’ll be fine…”

 

No you won’t… not unless he is…

 

Shadow seemed unsure, but nodded. 

 

“Okay, well… just text me if you need anything. And try not to worry too much… He’ll be alright. He's tough. And the nurse said things were going well.”

 

Kaoru had missed that… He was glad to hear it though. 

 

“I… I know he is.”

 

“Keep us posted, okay?” Reki asked.

 

“I will.” he said, even though he felt a whole new wave of dread at the thought of having to tell everyone that Kojiro-

 

He stopped himself from finishing the thought… They were right… Kojiro would be fine… He had to be fine… that was what he tried to tell himself anyway…

 

With that, everyone said goodbye, and Kaoru was left alone with his thoughts again…

 

 

 

Chapter 11: Reversal

 

 

 

“I’m so sorry. There was nothing we could do.”

 

Kaoru blinked slowly at the doctor standing in front of him. “What… n-no, that can’t- he can’t be-”

 

“I’m sorry…”

 

“No…” Kaoru stood up. “I need to see him.”

 

“I'm afraid we can’t let you do that-”

 

Kaoru tried to head for the doors that led further into the hospital but suddenly he was being held back. 

 

He thrashed and fought against whatever was holding him. 

 

He just needed to get to him. To see him. He couldn’t be-

 

But he couldn’t move… no matter how much he fought, the doors just got further and further away… a high-pitched ringing noise coming from somewhere.

 

Then Adam was there, arms crossed, looking down at him. “I tried to tell you, Blossom.”

 

Kaoru finally managed to break free.

 

He ran past Adam and burst through the doors-

 

And he was in Kojiro’s old bedroom. Except it was too bright. Empty.

 

Adam walked into the room. “See? He’s gone.”

 

Kaoru felt himself getting dragged back through the doors again.

 

Adam just watched. “This was always how it was going to end.”

 

Kaoru just let himself get dragged away this time, somehow knowing, deep down, that it was true.

 

He was alone.

 

Kojiro was gone.

“Mr. Sakurayashiki?”

 

Kaoru startled awake.

 

He stood up and tried to ignore how dizzy it made him. And how stiff and sore he felt.

 

“Y-yes?”

 

A nurse walked over to him with a kind, professional demeanor. “You’re here for Mr. Nanjo?”

 

She seemed familiar, but he couldn’t quite place it. And he really didn’t care to at the moment.

 

“Yes, I-I am…” Kaoru said shakily.

 

She just looked at him for a second. “Please, Mr. Sakurayashiki, sit back down.”

 

Kaoru just stared at her for a second, but did as she asked, trying not to think about the nightmare he just had-

 

“The surgery went well. He was actually awake when I left. You’ll be able to go see him once he’s moved into a room.“

 

Kaoru’s shoulders sagged. He just sat there for a second, then realized tears were rolling down his face.

 

He looked away and wiped his eyes with the back of his hand. “I’m- I’m so sorry, I-“

 

“There’s no need to apologize. I know this must have been quite a scare. But he should fully recover with proper care and rest."

 

Kaoru just nodded. 

 

“He insisted that I make sure this gets back to you.”

 

Kaoru looked up and couldn’t tell if he wanted to laugh or really start crying when she handed him his bracelet.

 

“He also said to tell you to rest and go get something to eat. And if you don’t mind me saying, I have to agree with him. It’ll still be a little while before they move him.

 

Kaoru sighed. Of course that idiot was worrying about him right now.

 

He nodded.

 

“I will… thank you.”

 

“Of course,” she said before turning to leave.

 

Kaoru just sat there looking at the bracelet for a moment after she left. 

 

Then, he got an idea.

Kaoru just stood outside Kojiro’s room, trying to mentally prepare himself, running his fingers over his bracelet…

 

He’d just finished talking to Kojiro’s doctor. She had reiterated that Kojiro should be fine, but she also hadn’t spared any details in explaining why Kaoru needed to be gentle while visiting him. 

 

He felt a bit better after eating something, but his brain still felt pretty fried, so he didn’t fully comprehend most of what she’d tried to explain. 

 

All he could really gather was that Kojiro’s lung collapsed… and he had been on death’s door when he arrived.

 

The doctors managed to stabilize him, obviously, but… If they had gotten him here much later, he probably would have-

 

Kaoru shook his head. There was no use in dwelling on that now. Kojiro was alive. And he was just behind the door.

 

He took a deep breath, then turned the knob and walked in.

 

He stopped when he saw Kojiro lying there. His eyes were closed. He was covered in bruises, both from the blows with Adam and the fall. A large gauze pad was taped over his wound. There was an oxygen mask strapped to his face. His chest rose and fell steadily… but Kaoru’s eyes lingered on the tube sticking out of his chest on his left side, running down to one of several machines next to the bed.

 

Even though he’d been warned by Kojiro’s doctor and it was completely covered by gauze and tape, the sight still made Kaoru’s stomach turn. 

 

He just stood there, looking at the floor and taking deep breaths for a moment. 

 

Finally, he squared his shoulders, then pulled a chair over to the bed before sitting down. He rested his head on the edge of the mattress and placed his hand next to Kojiro’s, not daring to touch him. 

 

He didn’t want to disturb him. He needed to rest…

The next thing Kaoru knew, he was waking up to the feeling of someone squeezing his hand.

 

He lifted his head to find Kojiro looking down at him.

 

“You’re gonna… hurt your back… sleeping like that… Princess.”

 

He sounded tired , his voice quiet and breathy, muffled by the mask, and yet, he was smiling slightly, a bit of a playful glint in his eyes. 

 

Kaoru just looked at him for a moment, then rested his forehead against their joined hands.

 

“Kojiro-“

 

He started sobbing before he could get any further, everything from the last several hours finally catching up and slamming into him along with the overwhelming sense of relief.

 

“K-Kaoru-?”

 

“Sh-Shut up. You st- stupid gorilla…”

 

“Hey… It… It’s okay- ” 

 

Kaoru scowled and shook his head. “You almost-“

 

He cut himself off with a shaky breath.

 

Kojiro squeezed his hand a bit tighter. “I didn’t. I’m… still here… I’m not… going anywhere…”

 

Kaoru sniffled and squeezed Kojiro’s hand in return. “I’m never… f-forgiving you for this… you b-brainless ape…”

 

Kojiro let out a breathy noise, somewhere between a scoff and a laugh. 

 

“Mhm… Can’t you just… say you were… worried about me… you asshole?” he asked, no bite to his tone, only a playful fondness underneath the exhaustion.

 

Kaoru huffed. Normally he would push back, claim he wasn’t worried. But after everything, he just didn’t have it in him to outright deny it.

 

He finally looked back up at Kojiro. “I c- could… but then you’d be i-insufferable.”

 

Kojiro blinked, then laughed a bit. “I… would not.”

 

Kaoru scoffed. “ Right ... I’d never hear th-the end of it, you oaf…”

 

“Uh-huh… too bad you didn’t… pretty much admit it… already. Guess we’ll… never know.”

 

Kaoru huffed and looked away, feeling his face heat up a bit. “You’re an idiot…”

 

Kojiro chuckled a bit. “Whatever you say… Princess.”

 

Kaoru sighed, realizing that verbally sparring with Kojiro seemed to have gotten rid of some of the awful dread in his chest.

 

Kojiro took a shaky breath before speaking again.

 

“Is… Is Adam… alright?”

 

Kaoru blinked, then scowled. He was very tempted to berate Kojiro for wasting his energy being concerned about Adam right now. But he refrained. He’d already gotten off track…

 

He slowly sat up.

 

“I’m sure he’s fine,” Kaoru growled, his voice still a bit shaky. “But regardless, there’s… something important I need to- I… I promised myself I wouldn’t put this off. Even if this might not… be the ideal time, I need to tell you-”

 

Kojiro sighed and closed his eyes. “Look… Kaoru…”

 

Kaoru felt his stomach drop a bit. 

 

“I’m really sorry for… dumping all that on you. I wasn’t… thinking straight. I get it if… you still don’t- If you were just… trying to keep me awake… or trying to make me feel better. I mean… I thought I was-”

 

“Are you serious??” Kaoru cut him off, glaring at him. “You really think I would lie about that just to make you feel better??”

 

Kojiro frowned, his brows furrowed, looking at Kaoru like he’d just given him some impossible riddle to figure out.

 

Kaoru let out a deep, heavy sigh and rubbed his hands over his face. “Alright… This is why I- Just… Here. ”

 

He took his bracelet off and handed it over.

 

Kojiro slowly took it, clearly confused still. “I… I don’t-“

 

“Carla.”

 

The bracelet lit up. “Yes, Master?”

 

Kaoru hesitated for a second. “Play… play latest recording.”

 

“Okay master.”

 

Kojiro frowned, his brows furrowed. “Are you seriously… gonna make me listen to-“

 

“Kojiro…”

 

Kojiro froze, looking down at the bracelet as Kaoru’s voice came out of it.

 

Kaoru bit his lip and looked away.

 

“This… Well, this feels stupid now that I’m actually doing it, but… when that nurse gave me my bracelet back again, I thought this would be a good way to get all my thoughts out without getting distracted. I also thought it might be fitting, seeing as- Well, I lied to you. About what Carla recorded after my beef with Adam. She heard everything… everything you said to me on the way to the hospital.

 

At first I… that’s why I snuck out of the hospital and came to the restaurant that night. I hoped- I hoped you would keep your promise. 

 

But then you didn’t, and I thought of course it was stupid to hope, to think you really wanted that. With me. I mean, after all these years, why would anything have changed? You don’t date men. You haven’t actually dated at all since high school. You don’t want a serious relationship. At least… I never thought you did.

 

But then you kissed me, and I panicked- which was not your fault, I just- Adam was already on my mind and then you said-“

 

He stopped, then sighed.

 

“You couldn’t have known that was one of his favorite excuses…

 

And I wanted to talk to you about it after I had calmed down, but then he came crashing in and ruined everything, as usual. And you wouldn’t talk to me and then you showed up with those girls. So I thought- I guess it just… it felt like you’d given up on me.

 

But those things you said-“

 

Kaoru frowned a bit, hearing his own voice break.

 

“I know you… weren’t exactly in the best headspace, so maybe I was right before and you were just talking nonsense. Maybe you didn’t really mean any of it. If that’s the case, I just… I hope things won’t be too awkward after this. 

 

You’ve been… the only constant in my life. For so long, I didn’t think it was worth the risk to say anything. But I realized, if things had gone differently... I- I don’t know how I would have lived with myself if that had been the last time we talked.

 

So, I’m going to risk it. I have to. Even if it terrifies me. Even if I make a total fool of myself. If keeping it hidden could be causing you- causing both of us that much pain. Because you deserve to be happy too. Because, like I tried to tell you on the way here, I love you too, Kojiro.”

 

The room was silent save for the quiet beeping of the heart monitor.

 

Kaoru got more and more anxious with every second that passed. Maybe he’d miscalculated… Maybe the recording was a terrible idea… Maybe he’d said something wrong… Maybe he’d just ruined his relationship with the most important person in his life…

 

He tried to think of something… anything to say-

 

Then, he heard Kojiro let out a shuddering breath.

 

Kaoru blinked and finally looked up at him.

 

Kojiro had tears streaming down around his mask. He wiped them away with his free hand, his movements stiff and slow.

 

Kaoru quickly reached out, but hesitated, not sure what to do. 

 

“Kojiro, it’s… w-why are you crying ??”

 

Kojiro let out a choked sob and weakly threw the bracelet at him. It harmlessly smacked Kaoru in the shoulder before falling to the mattress, surprising him more than anything.

 

“You… asshole… You just… poured your heart out to me… in the most… you way possible…” 

 

Kaoru frowned. “That’s… bad-?”

 

Kojiro reached out and squeezed Kaoru’s hand in a death grip. “…You’re cruel.”

 

“What?? How!?”

 

“Giving me… that… when I can’t even… hug you… you… jerk…”

 

Kaoru blinked and just stared at him for a moment, then relaxed a little bit and squeezed his hand back.

 

He let out a relieved laugh, feeling tears well up in his own eyes again.

 

“Well… get over it, you ape… you can hug me when you get better.”

 

Kojiro sniffled, but smiled a bit. “I'm gonna… hold you… to that…”

 

Kaoru shook his head, sniffling a bit himself. “Shut up… Stop crying , you dumb gorilla…”

 

“You're… one to talk… J-Jerk… ” Kojiro muttered.

 

“ I don’t have a serious chest injury. You’re gonna hurt yourself… you moron.”

 

Kojiro let out a quiet, breathy laugh. “It’s cute… how you get… mean… when you’re worried…”

 

Kaoru sighed, feeling far too exhausted to think of a better response than, “Oh, shut up…”

 

It was quiet for a moment, then Kojiro tightened his grip a bit.

 

“Don’t… Don’t go…”

 

Kaoru blinked and looked at him. He could tell Kojiro was struggling to keep his eyes open.

 

Kaoru squeezed Kojiro’s hand before resting his head on the side of the mattress.

 

“I’m not going anywhere, you big oaf... I promise…”

 

Kojiro relaxed and nodded a bit as he closed his eyes. “ M’kay…” he barely whispered. “ Love you... Princess… ”

 

Kaoru was pretty sure he was already asleep, but he responded anyway.

 

“I love you too, you gorilla,” he whispered, gently brushing his thumb over the back of Kojiro’s hand.

 

Kaoru knew they still had a lot to discuss… apologies to make, questions that needed answers… but for the moment, he just let himself quietly revel in the fact that this was real...

 

Kojiro wanted him to stay. Kojiro wanted to be with him. Kojiro loved him. And Kojiro would be okay.

 

Despite everything , they would both be okay.

 

 

 

Chapter 12: Together Again

 

 

 

A week later, Kojiro was finally sent home with strict orders to rest and not do anything strenuous. And Kaoru intended to make sure he listened.

 

Once they made it into his apartment, Kaoru took a moment to pile all of Kojiro’s pillows against the headboard so he would be comfortable. 

 

Kojiro winced a bit and let out a long sigh as he slowly leaned back against them.

 

“Thanks.”

 

“Mhm,” Kaoru hummed as he carefully pulled the covers over him. 

 

Kojiro looked up at him. “...Cuddle with me?”

 

Kaoru blinked, then hesitated for a moment. Not because he didn’t want to, he was just considering the best way to go about it… If it was even a good idea. Kojiro’s wound was barely healed, plus Kaoru knew he was still sore pretty much everywhere from the fall itself-

 

“I’m not made of glass, Ru...”

 

Kaoru huffed. “I know. Just… here, sit up for a second-“

 

Kaoru helped him and carefully maneuvered to sit behind him, stretching his legs out on either side of him.

 

“Is this alright?”

 

Kojiro leaned back against him, turning his head to nuzzle into Kaoru’s chest as he let out a content hum. “Mhm…"

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes, but carefully wrapped his arms around Kojiro’s waist. “Needy gorilla…”

 

They sat in comfortable silence for a while before Kojiro sighed.

 

“I’m sorry.”

 

“Huh?”

 

“That I didn’t keep my promise.”

 

Kaoru just looked down at him for a moment.

 

They hadn’t really talked yet. 

 

Kojiro had been asleep a lot of the time at the hospital, or they would get interrupted by nurses or their friends. And Kaoru had his work that he was still catching up on, plus he had also volunteered to help manage some things with Sia la Luce since Kojiro was going to be completely out of commission for a while. They just hadn’t had a chance.

 

Kaoru knew they had to talk sooner or later, but that didn’t make him any less nervous about it.

 

He steeled himself before asking, “Why didn’t you?”

 

Kojiro hesitated for a moment. 

 

“After I calmed down and thought about it for two seconds, it felt… wrong to spring that on you right after Adam hurt you. Again. And I couldn’t risk scaring you away. You were hurt , you needed my help... And I didn’t know you heard me. So I thought I should just wait. But then…”

 

Kaoru sighed heavily. “...You kissed me and I reacted like a total idiot?”

 

“Don’t put it like that . I shouldn’t have- I’m sorry I caused-”

 

Kaoru frowned. “You didn’t know. It wasn’t even that you kissed me, I just- You didn’t do anything wrong...”

 

“But-”

 

“Don’t-” Kaoru paused, then sighed. “Can we just… agree that that wasn't anyone’s fault..?”

 

Kojiro huffed. “ Adam’s… ”

Kaoru snorted a bit. “Sure. I can’t believe you thought I still had feelings for him...”

 

“Well what was I supposed to think?? You were obsessed with challenging him for years! And then… there was all that stuff you said about hoping you meant something to him.”

 

Kaoru sighed. “Yeah, well… the thought of actually being with him again disgusts me, but it still hurt knowing that he never cared.”

 

He wrinkled his nose a bit before continuing. “Although now I don’t know why I ever cared what that pathetic excuse of a man felt for me…”

 

Kojiro gaped at him.

 

Kaoru frowned. “What?”

 

“I just… don’t think I’ve ever heard you outright insult him before.”

 

Kaoru bristled. “Don’t be stupid, yes I have!”

 

Kaoru could see the realization on Kojiro’s face.

 

Kojiro smirked. “Aw, Princess... Are you upset because I got hurt?”

 

Kaoru scowled and tried to brush it off. “I mean… Obviously I’m not happy about it . How stupid are you??”

 

Kojiro smiled a bit. “Kaoru, Baby, it wasn’t really his fault this time.”

 

Kaoru felt his face flush. “Don’t call me that! And yes it was! He pushed you off balance and got in your way…”

 

“Princess, I messed up his shoulder-“

 

“So!? It served him right…”

 

“Kaoru!” Kojiro exclaimed, clearly trying not to laugh.

 

Kaoru paused, taking a deep breath. "But you still shouldn't have done it. You know he could get you in all kinds of trouble if he really wanted to…”

 

Kojiro shrugged. “I doubt he will…”

 

Kaoru frowned, but he had to agree. Adam wouldn’t risk exposing S over this. 

 

It was quiet for a moment before Kaoru asked, “...Was he right?” 

 

Kojiro looked up at him and frowned a bit, his eyebrows drawing together slightly.

 

“Adam. During the race. Have you… really had feelings for me since high school?”

 

Kojiro blushed and looked away. He let out a nervous chuckle. “I… think I was in love with you before that, actually… I just didn’t realize it until then.”

 

Kaoru just stared down at him for a moment, then closed his eyes and hugged Kojiro as tight as he dared, careful to keep his arms below his chest.

 

Kojiro sighed. “Hey, it’s okay. It’s not-”

 

“I loved you too, you idiot.”

 

“You- what!?” Kojiro exclaimed, looking up at him. “You were with Adam!”

 

Kaoru huffed. “Well you were straight!”

 

Kojiro burst out laughing for a second, then tensed up and clutched at his chest, hissing through his teeth. 

 

“Agh…” 

 

A spike of panic spread through Kaoru’s body. “Be careful! You-! ”

 

“I’m okay.” Kojiro settled back down, still chuckling a bit. “But I was not straight... And it was your fault.”

 

Kaoru felt his face heat up. “What- That you laughed or that you weren’t straight!?”

 

“Yes.”

 

Kaoru blinked, then scowled. “But- Then why didn’t you ever say anything!?”

 

Kojiro sighed. “Well, I didn’t know bisexuality was a thing, so I was kind of having an identity crisis for a while. I was scared to talk to you about it, obviously. And by the time I really figured it out you were with Adam…”

 

Kaoru just stared at him for a moment, then sighed heavily. “You should have said something, you moron. At least about that. I could have helped. And I can promise you, I would not have figured out it had anything to do with me, unless you spelled it out.”

 

Kojiro chuckled a bit. “I dunno, you can be pretty smart-“

 

Kaoru tensed up as he suddenly realised- 

 

“Wait, you did mean it that way!!!”

 

Kojiro frowned. “What..?”

 

“That voicemail you left me back in high school! You told me you loved me!” 

 

Kojiro blinked, then laughed softly. “I’m… surprised you remember that.”

 

“Of course I do! You... friendzoned me! We could have been together this whole time!”

 

“In my defense, I think I did kind of mean it platonically. I was worried about you and I mean, I still love you as my best friend too. But… yeah, I knew what you were getting at when you asked about it that night.” 

 

“Then why didn’t you-“

 

“I was mad at you for disappearing on me, and you were still heartbroken over Adam. Plus I kind of thought you were just trying to tease me about it. It felt like a bad time... And then it always felt like a bad time… you just-“ Kojiro paused, then let out a shaky breath, his voice getting quieter, “-you stopped trusting me. Even after I came back.”

 

Kaoru just stared down at him for a moment, then sighed. 

 

“Is… that what you were trying to say in the car? About if you had stayed?”

 

Kojiro sighed. “I don’t know. I guess? Sometimes I just wonder if I never went to Italy- Sometimes I think maybe it was a mistake...”

 

Kaoru scowled a bit. “Do you regret being a chef? Or opening a restaurant?”

 

“Of course not! But-“

 

“Then it wasn’t a mistake. You aren’t… responsible for me or all the shit I was going through.”

 

“No, but I still wish I could have been there for you. Then maybe-“

 

Kaoru sighed. “You were. You went out of your way to stay in touch with me from the other side of the world for three years. It was my own fault for pushing you away the second I thought you might abandon me… even though you never gave me any real reason to think you would...”

 

“I know you were- you went through a lot, I mean… You were scared. I get it-“

 

Kaoru shook his head, carefully taking Kojiro’s hand and intertwining their fingers. “That… doesn’t make it fair to you.” 

 

Kojiro squeezed his hand a bit and looked up at him. “It’s okay. As long as it’s in the past now...”

 

Kaoru bit his lip, trying to find the right words. “It… it is . I trust you with my life, Kojiro… but I still- I mean- This is still -“

 

Kojiro sighed. “Believe it or not, this is actually pretty terrifying for me too.”

 

Kaoru blinked, then frowned. “Is that some kind of joke?”

 

Kojiro huffed. “No. You would be my first boyfriend- my first real partner of any kind… unless you want to count those random girls I sort of dated in high school.”

 

Kaoru blinked, his face flushing hearing him actually say it. “...Your boyfriend, huh?”

 

Kojiro blushed a bit. “I mean… We don’t have to label it. Or we could use a different term if you want.”

 

Kaoru could tell he was trying to sound nonchalant, but he could hear the uncertainty and vulnerability underneath.

 

Kaoru shrugged, hiding his smile in Kojiro’s hair. “I suppose that works as good as any. If you’ll have me. ” 

 

Kojiro relaxed and let out a shaky laugh. “What kind of stupid question is that? That’s all I’ve wanted for years,” he whispered as tears started to roll down his face. “Just… talk to me if something’s wrong, that’s all I ask.”

 

Kaoru relaxed a bit and carefully wiped his tears away. “Sounds a bit mature for us…”

 

“Kaoru.”

 

Kaoru sighed. “I will. You sappy gorilla. But you have to do the same…”

 

Kojiro sniffled and let out a soft laugh. “Okay.”

 

Kaoru continued wiping the tears away. “You sure have been crying a lot lately…”

 

Kojiro blinked, then huffed, clearly trying not to smile. “It’s the stupid painkillers... And I know you didn’t just say that.”

 

Kaoru smirked a bit. “Uh-huh… Well, it’s weird for you.”

 

Kojiro sniffled. “Yeah, well, this has been a lot.”

 

Kaoru paused for a second, then sighed. “I know. I’m… I’m so sorry .”

 

Kojiro laughed a bit. “Now who’s being weird?”

 

“Huh?”

 

“I think that’s the first time you’ve actually apologized to me since… ever?”  

 

“Hey, I-! That’s not-!”

 

Kojiro raised an eyebrow at him.

 

Kaoru paused, then sighed and hid his face by resting his head on top of Kojiro’s. “Why do you still have feelings for me? I’ve been… awful to you.”

 

Kojiro shrugged a bit. “I’m a masochist.” 

 

Kaoru blinked and looked down to find Kojiro looking up at him completely straight-faced… until his lips slowly curled up in a playful smirk.

 

Kaoru scoffed, then both of them started laughing.

 

Once they settled down, Kaoru sighed. 

 

“Seriously, though…”

 

Kojiro ran his fingers through the ends of Kaoru’s hair. 

 

“Because I know you. You haven’t been awful. You show that you care in your own ways. But I will admit, it does feel nice to actually hear it.”

 

Kaoru sighed and closed his eyes. “I’ll… try to keep that in mind.”

 

Kojiro settled back down. “I appreciate it, Princess.”

 

They sat in comfortable silence for a moment before Kaoru sighed.

 

“Do you need anything?” 

 

Kojiro nuzzled into his chest. “Got everything I need right here.”

 

Kaoru wrinkled his nose. “Don’t be gross. I’m serious…”

 

Kojiro sighed. “Kaoru, don’t worry about it. I can get up if I need to. I’m alright.”

 

Kaoru frowned, then cupped Kojiro’s cheek. “Hey…”

 

Kojiro looked up at him.

 

“You took care of me, I’m going to do the same for you.”

 

Kojiro blinked, then smiled and slowly leaned into his touch. “I guess… some water would be nice.”

 

“Of course-“ 

 

Kaoru tried to get up, then huffed when Kojiro’s dead-weight held him down.

 

“Well you have to get off of me , you idiot.”

 

Kojiro groaned dramatically. “I don’t wanna… ”

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes and flicked Kojiro in the forehead, lightly.

 

“Wh- Ow !” Kojiro exclaimed anyway, sitting up and rubbing his hand over the afflicted area. “Is that any way to treat your patient!?”

 

Kaoru took the opportunity to get up. “It is when he’s being a brat with no sense of self-preservation.”

 

Kojiro pouted. “I take it back, you’re so awful to me.”

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes, smirking a bit as he headed for the door. “Well, you just admitted that you like it.”

 

Kojiro snorted, then sighed. “Yeah, maybe a little.”

 

Kaoru blushed, but shook his head and went to the kitchen.

 

“Hurry back.” Kojiro called after him.

 

Kaoru huffed. “Clingy gorilla…” he said, just loud enough for Kojiro to hear.

 

He returned with a glass of water to find Kojiro lying back against the pillows with his eyes closed.

 

He couldn’t help but stare for a moment, his eyes lingering on the patch of gauze taped to his chest.

 

“Enjoying the view?”

 

Kaoru blinked and realized Kojiro was looking at him, smirking.

 

He scoffed and walked over to sit on the edge of the mattress, then handed over the glass without looking at him.

 

Kaoru started to brush it off, say “you wish” or call Kojiro an idiot, then he considered what they’d just talked about and sighed.

 

“No. It hurts seeing you like this,” he admitted quietly.

 

It was silent for a moment.

 

Kaoru tensed up a bit when he felt the mattress shift, but then Kojiro placed the glass on the nightstand and wrapped an arm around him from behind, resting his head on the back of Kaoru’s shoulder.

 

“Well, now you know how I felt.”

 

Kaoru huffed, but slowly turned to face him.

 

Kojiro moved back a bit, smiling at him. “I’m okay-”

 

Kaoru put his arms around Kojiro’s neck and kissed him.

 

Kojiro took in a sharp breath, but then he relaxed and kissed Kaoru back, trying to pull him closer.

 

Kaoru pulled back before he could, not wanting to hurt him. It earned him a pout that had no right being as adorable as it was.

 

Kaoru smirked a little bit. “There. Now we’re even.”

 

Kojiro blinked, then smirked right back. “Oh, you’re not gonna win that challenge, Princess.”

 

“Well, I’m sure as hell not going to lose to a dopey gorilla.”

 

Kojiro kissed him again, wrapping an arm around him before leaning back against the pillows.

 

“Wh- Hey!” Kaoru exclaimed, catching himself before he could be pulled down on top of him. “You’re gonna hurt yourself, you-!”

 

Kojiro laughed a bit. “ Relax . I’m fine. Just stay on my right.”

 

Kaoru sighed heavily, but curled up against Kojiro’s right side. “Idiot…”

 

“Mhm,” Kojiro hummed. “I love you too.” 

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes, but cuddled just a little bit closer before kissing Kojiro again.

 

 

 

Chapter 13: Undisguised

 

 

 

Kaoru finally stood at the top of Crazy Rock again, wearing his full Cherry Blossom costume, carrying Carla.

 

It had been almost four months since Kaoru’s beef with Adam. Four months since he’d raced at S. Four months since he’d really skated at all, even though his ankle had actually been healed for several weeks now. 

 

He claimed he was just following his physical therapist’s orders, avoiding putting too much strain on it until he was sure he had his full strength and flexibility back. And that really was part of it. He didn’t want to risk permanent injury, after all.

 

But he’d honestly found himself in a bit of a rut when it came to skating. It wasn’t that he didn’t want to... And he’d hop on his board to make a quick trip to the store, or to demonstrate something for the kids, but the thought of skating at S or even doing much at the skatepark just didn’t feel right. 

 

He knew why, even if he was too embarrassed to admit it.

 

Kojiro’s recovery was a slow and infuriating process for both of them — Especially once Kojiro had started feeling better. Kaoru wasn’t surprised that being unable to do much physical activity had nearly driven Kojiro insane. But that didn’t make it any less stressful or annoying when he’d had to constantly stop the moron from overexerting himself.

 

It had led to lots of bickering, both playful and heated. But also, eventually, some deeper conversations. As well as… other activities to keep Kojiro occupied.

 

But the gorilla had finally been given a completely clean bill of health earlier that day. And of course, the first thing he wanted to do was start skating again.

 

And suddenly, Kaoru had been thrilled at the idea and easily agreed to come practice with the oaf at Crazy Rock.

 

He was a little disgusted with himself for being so sentimental. But then again, it was Kojiro . How was he supposed to fully enjoy skating while his partner was sidelined?

 

“Be careful, Princess,” Kojiro said as he walked up beside him, wearing his Joe outfit and carrying his own board.

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes as he looked up at him. “ I’m not the one you should be worrying about, you overbearing gorilla.”

 

Kojiro put his board down and crossed his arms. “Don’t make me take you back home… I’m not going back to the hospital tonight.”

 

“Maybe you should stay off your skateboard then, you clumsy oaf.”

 

Kojiro smirked. “Aww, you worried about me, Ru?”

 

Kaoru glared at him, but wavered slightly when he couldn’t help looking at the thin scar on Kojiro’s chest, his tattoo almost pointing to it. 

 

He shook his head as he looked away. “Just try not to do anything too stupid, you dopey gorilla.”

 

Kaoru took off down the mountain instead of waiting for a response.

 

Well, maybe “ took off” was a little generous. He may have given Kojiro a hard time, but he was planning to take it kind of easy tonight.  

 

He hated to admit it, but he was embarrassingly rusty. And even though it was healed, his ankle still felt weaker than it used to be. He knew that was probably mostly in his head at this point, but he still didn’t quite trust it to hold up to anything too crazy yet.

 

He rounded the first turn, then noticed Kojiro pulling up next to him. 

 

Kojiro winked at him. “Hey, gorgeous. Come here often?”

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes. “Watch where you’re going, you idiot…”

 

He couldn’t help noting how at ease Kojiro looked already, despite it being the first time he’d skated at all since being injured. Kaoru would be lying if he said he wasn’t jealous of Kojiro’s instinct sometimes.

 

He sighed when he realized Kojiro wasn’t even trying to overtake him. “You don’t have to babysit me, you oaf.”

 

Kojiro frowned. “I’m not trying to babysit you. I want to skate with you.” 

 

Kaoru was grateful he had his mask on, knowing that he was blushing underneath it. “You’re such a sap.” 

 

“I’m your sap.”

 

Kaoru raised an eyebrow at him. “Oh, are you? I saw you with those fans of yours the other night. They’ve been all over you ever since we started showing up again.”

 

Kojiro pouted and crossed his arms. “Hey, I can’t help it if my fans love me. Besides, you’re the one who said we should keep up appearances so no one gets suspicious… I didn’t even kiss any of them.” 

 

Kaoru smirked under his mask, then drifted closer, lightly bumping his skateboard against Kojiro’s. “Is that so? How do I know you aren’t losing interest in me?” he teased, glancing up at him for a second before pulling ahead to take the next turn.

 

“Oh shit!” Kojiro exclaimed behind him, so distracted that he apparently hadn’t even noticed the turn coming up.

 

Kaoru glanced back just long enough to make sure Kojiro hadn’t bailed, then laughed and kept going after catching a glimpse of the ungraceful turn that left Kojiro trailing behind.

 

Kaoru focused on the track, switching left and right several times through a series of sharp, down-hill turns. 

 

He was starting to feel a little more confident.

 

He had just made it back onto a straightaway and was going to stop and wait for Kojiro to catch up when he heard a loud whoosh behind him.

 

He turned his head to see the bottom of Kojiro’s board for a split second before Kojiro landed right behind him. 

 

Kaoru blinked, then frowned. “What the hell, you dumb gorilla!? You shouldn’t be-“

 

He paused when Kojiro pulled up right next to him and put his arm around his waist. “I could never lose interest in you, Princess. Haven’t I proven that by now?” 

 

Kaoru stared up at Kojiro with wide eyes for a second as the wind whipped through his green hair, his eyes intense, but also so full of fondness as he smiled down at him.

 

Kaoru felt his knees go weak for a second before he shook himself out of it.

 

He ducked down on his board, escaping Kojiro’s grasp, before standing up straight again, now a bit behind. “You think one silly little jump will woo me like one of your fangirls?”

 

Kojiro pouted, then smirked. “Okay. How about this, then?” 

 

Kojiro sped up as he approached a section where the wall going into a turn curved to create a sort of rock half pipe. He jumped and spun around in the air to change directions, landing going into the straightaway around the turn.

 

Kaoru took the turn on the ground to find Kojiro looking back at him for approval, smiling proudly.

 

Kaoru watched him with his arms crossed and was once again grateful he had the mask on so Kojiro couldn’t see him smiling. He shrugged and waved his hand in a “so-so” gesture.

 

Kojiro slowed down, skating a circle around Kaoru. “Oh come on, don’t pretend you aren’t impressed. I can see it in your eyes.”

 

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

 

Kojiro laughed and just held out his hand.

 

It wasn’t fair. How was Kaoru supposed to keep up an act when Kojiro looked at him like he’d hung the moon? His hair blowing in the wind, his body language relaxed and trusting even as they sped down a mountain on skateboards…

 

Kaoru sighed and took his hand, pulling so that they were skating a bit closer together. “You sentimental oaf...”

 

Kojiro smiled. “Well apparently you like it.”

 

“Yeah, yeah… hush.”

 

“Can I try something..?”

 

Kaoru blinked, then shrugged. “Sure…” 

 

Kojiro took Kaoru’s other hand as well and pulled. 

 

Kaoru felt his board starting to spin around and he nearly yelped, feeling off balance for a second before he caught on and steadied himself by gripping onto Kojiro’s hands a bit tighter.

 

They spun in a circle, gentle, slow, controlled, until they ended up back how they started. Kojiro smiled brightly.

 

Kaoru raised an eyebrow at him. “Are you trying to dance with me?”

 

Kojiro shrugged. “Yeah.”  

 

“That’s ridiculous… but if you insist-” 

 

He let go of one of Kojiro’s hands and put a bit more space between them, then motioned for him to hold their joined hands up higher.

 

Kojiro did, then Kaoru did a spin, twirling under Kojiro’s arm, before drifting back in closer. 

 

Kojiro laughed. “That was beautiful.”

 

Kaoru couldn’t help smiling a bit. “It was stupid .” 

 

“Hm. You’re living proof that both can be true,” Kojiro teased. 

 

Kaoru glared at him. “You’re one to talk, you asshole!”

 

Kojiro just laughed and spun them in a circle again. “You love me~”

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes and shifted his weight a bit to take the lead, spinning them around the other way. “Yes. I do.”

 

He realized he really should say it more often when he saw the bright, genuine smile that lit up Kojiro’s face.

 

They continued trying to do simple dance moves on their skateboards as they made their way down the mountain, some working out better than others, only stopping to make gentle jabs at each other or when sharp turns forced them to.

 

Kaoru was sure they looked ridiculous, but he didn’t care. He was having fun and he was already feeling much more comfortable on his board again.

 

Eventually their luck ran out and their wheels ended up getting locked together when they got a little too close, bringing them to a sudden stop.

 

They weren’t going very fast, so both of them just sort of toppled over.

 

“Are you okay?” Kojiro laughed, squeezing Kaoru’s hand.

 

Kaoru was laughing so hard that he had to wipe tears from his eyes, but he squeezed back. “Yeah. Yeah, I’m fine. Are you?” he asked as he sat up.

 

Kojiro smiled up at him, still lying on his back. “I’m great. So, do you believe me now?” 

 

“Huh?”

 

“That I’m only interested in you .” 

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes as he pulled his mask down. “You know I was just messing with you, idiot…”

 

“Yeah, but I still want to know that you know .”

 

Kaoru leaned in and kissed him.

 

“I know. Don’t worry.”

 

Kojiro smiled and wrapped his arms around Kaoru’s neck, pulling him back in-

 

They both jumped and knocked their heads together when the floodlights closest to them suddenly turned on and the speaker system started playing Careless Whisper.

 

Kojiro looked around for a second before scowling at the nearest camera. “Adam! You son of a-”

 

Kaoru pulled him into another kiss and blocked it from the camera’s view with his robe.

It was another couple weeks before Kaoru felt comfortable enough to actually skate at S again. 

 

He was nervous as he skated towards the starting line, but it didn’t have anything to do with the idea of racing again, or his fans seeing him skate for the first time in months, or even Adam supposedly being back after his shoulder finally healed. 

 

He felt Kojiro’s presence next to him before he even looked.

 

“You still sure you want to do this tonight..?” he asked quietly, smiling and waving at a small group of people who had called his name as they headed to the main course. “You seem nervous. We can wait until you get back into the swing of things, or call it off entirely if you want.” 

 

Kaoru crossed his arms. “Please, you’re acting like this isn’t also your first race since your injuries healed… Are you sure you aren’t nervous?”

 

Kojiro shrugged. “Hey, I’m just trying to make sure you’re comfortable, Princess. ”

 

Kaoru rolled his eyes. “Oh shut up.” 

 

He was quiet for a moment, then sighed. “ Of course I’m nervous. I can’t not be nervous about this , but I’ve made up my mind. So, we might as well come back with a bang, right?” 

 

Kojiro smiled fondly at him, drifting closer and leaning in. “Well, look at you, being badass…”

 

Kaoru huffed and pushed him away. “Hush! Don’t do anything careless until after the race.”

 

Kojiro pouted. “Aaand there it goes.” 

 

Kaoru bumped into him lightly. “Hey. This was your idea. You’d better not do something to ruin our bet...” 

 

Kojiro laughed and pushed him back. “Yeah yeah, I won’t. Not that it would change much in the end,” he teased.

 

Kaoru smirked. “You wish .”

 

Before Kojiro could retort, they both looked up to see Adam skating towards them, holding a bouquet of roses.

 

Kaoru scowled a bit and he and Kojiro both drifted closer together before they stopped.

 

Adam smiled. “Well, well, look at this. The old gang, all finally back to skating again.”

 

Kojiro frowned. “What do you want?”

 

Adam sighed. “Don’t worry, I know you two have your own plans tonight. I’ll keep this brief. It’s just that after reviewing the footage, it would appear that you technically won our little race, Joe.”

 

Kaoru blinked. “Wait… what?”

 

“Yes, neither of us made it across the finish line, and Joe did hit the ground last-”

 

Kaoru scowled.

 

“-so, that means he won. Which means I owe you an apology.” Adam said, turning to smile at Kaoru.

 

Kaoru just stared at him.

 

Adam cleared his throat, then did an overly dramatic bow as he offered him the flowers. “I am terribly sorry for all the pain I’ve caused you, Cherry. I hope you can forgive me.”

 

Kaoru blinked, then huffed and crossed his arms. “No, thank you. Come on, Koji. Let’s go.” he said before skating around Adam.

 

He made it a good ten feet or so before Kojiro finally caught up with him, barely able to skate straight with how hard he was laughing.

 

“ Kaoru,” he laughed, clutching his stomach. “ That was almost worth getting stabbed. You should have seen his face!”

 

“Shut up, you moron…” Kaoru muttered, smiling slightly under his mask. 

They both got a very warm welcome when their friends noticed them.

 

“Hey! Good to have you guys back!” Reki said with a big smile.

 

Langa nodded in agreement. “Welcome back.”

 

Miya scoffed. “It’s not like they haven’t been coming to watch, guys…” 

 

Shadow laughed. “Yeah, but now they can race. Whaddya say, guys? What should we bet?”

 

“What!? No fair, I wanna have a beef with them too!” Reki said.

 

“I also want to-“

 

“Please, you slimes couldn’t keep up with them… unlike me.” 

 

Kojiro chuckled and put an arm around Kaoru’s shoulders. “Sorry, boys. Cherry and I already have a special race planned tonight.”

 

Most of the group groaned in disappointment, but Reki’s eyes lit up.

 

“Woooaaahhh no way! I’m gonna get to actually watch you guys race in person? Awesome!”

 

Kaoru shrugged Kojiro’s hand off his shoulder and glared at him.

 

Don’t blow our cover already you dumb ape.

 

Kojiro must have gotten the message, because he held his hands up in surrender, smiling.

 

Shadow sighed. “Tell me you guys put something fun on the line at least.” 

 

Kojiro smiled. “Oh we did... You’ll see.”

Soon enough, they were lined up at the start, their fans screaming in the background. 

 

Kojiro winked at him and Kaoru rolled his eyes.

 

Idiot.

 

The lights started flashing, until the last one lit up and the start was signaled. 

 

They both took off.

 

Kojiro took the lead around the first turn, but Kaoru wasn’t far behind.

 

Kaoru asked Carla to switch to long form on the straight away and managed to pass Kojiro before the next set of turns, switching back to short form and asking Carla to calculate the angles to maneuver through them easier.

 

Kojiro pulled up next to him when the course straightened out again and Kaoru bumped him playfully. 

 

Kojiro smirked.

 

“Playing dirty, Princess?”

 

“Just making sure you’re paying attention. Carla, calculate jump angle,”  he said, listening to the numbers and doing a bit of quick math in his head before turning off the path and using a rock as a ramp, taking a shortcut to bypass the upcoming turns.

 

He landed the jump perfectly. He just wished he could have seen Kojiro’s reaction.

 

Regardless, Kaoru was now well in the lead and he didn’t plan to let up. He had a race to win.

 

Things were going well and it seemed like he had the race in the bag… until he got to a certain stretch of the course…

 

Oh… This is where- 

 

Kaoru’s chest tightened as he got closer to the exact spot where he’d been hit, his vision went dark around the edges, and it was like he was in that moment as it suddenly came back to him.

 

All he could see was a red and blue blur coming at him. He closed his eyes, instinctively bringing his arms up to cover his face and leaning back to avoid the blow.

 

He lost his balance. He started to fall-

 

“Kaoru!”

 

Something caught him. The red and blue vanished, replaced by green.

 

Kaoru’s vision cleared up and there was Kojiro, one arm around his waist, holding him steady, one foot on the front of Carla to keep her from tipping, his eyes full of concern.

 

“Are you okay? What happened??” Kojiro asked as they continued down the track at a much slower pace.

 

Kaoru blinked. “Yeah, I-I’m okay now…” He repositioned his feet, balancing himself. 

 

Kojiro slowly let go and placed his foot back on his own board once Kaoru was steady, but he stayed close.

 

Kaoru sighed. “You know this is supposed to be a beef, right?”

 

Kojiro laughed. “Well, we just got back out here, I’d hate to see you back in the hospital already. Plus, it would defeat the whole purpose of this particular beef if you don’t cross the finish line with me, Princess…”

 

“Hm…You mean you’ll be crossing it with me. ” Kaoru said, picking up speed again as they rounded another turn.

 

“Hey!”

 

They were right together for the rest of the race, neither one of them letting up.

 

As they entered the warehouse, Cherry tried everything he could to pull ahead, but so did Joe.

 

They sped across the line together, too close to call it, before skidding to a stop.

 

“Who won!?” They yelled in unison, their voices getting lost in all the cheering.

 

Everyone watched the screens, waiting for the replay.

 

The video finally popped up, showing the fronts of the boards approaching the finish line in slow motion from a few different angles. It was close, but Kaoru’s board crossed over it first by maybe half an inch.

 

Everyone went crazy.

 

Kaoru noticed their friends standing at the edge of the crowd, Reki and Shadow probably cheering louder than anyone else there.

 

Kojiro sighed, but clapped for him as well before motioning to let Kaoru know the floor was his.

 

Kaoru waited for the cheering to die down a bit before he motioned for everyone to be quiet.

 

Kaoru looked up at Kojiro and paused. He had a speech planned, but… his heart was still racing, adrenaline running through his veins, excitement practically buzzing in the air… a speech suddenly felt silly, unfitting.

 

So instead, he just skipped to the end. He pulled his mask down, grabbed Kojiro by his jacket, and pulled him into a kiss.

 

Kaoru could feel how shocked Kojiro was, but then he smiled and kissed him back.

 

It was dead silent for about half a second before the crowd absolutely exploded, people screaming even louder than before.

 

Kojiro laughed and held him close, paying no mind to the crowd. “You’re just full of surprises tonight, huh?”

 

Kaoru gave him a playful smile before pulling his mask back up. “I guess you just bring out my more spontaneous side. Also, I’m winning now.”

 

Kojiro rolled his eyes as he took Kaoru’s hand. “Yeah, yeah. Not for long, Princess.”

 

Kaoru laughed and let Kojiro lead him to join their friends. 

 

Kaoru had expected them to be at least a little bit shocked, but they seemed to be taking it in stride, as he and Kojiro were both quickly crushed in a group hug.

 

Shadow smiled at them. “Took you guys long enough.”

 

Kaoru blinked. “Wait, you knew ??” 

 

Shadow laughed. “Dude. C’mon, it wasn’t hard to figure out.  

 

“You think we somehow missed all that stuff you guys said on the way to the hospital?” Miya asked.

 

Kaoru blushed a bit at that, but Kojiro just laughed.

 

Reki smirked a bit. “Miya thought you guys were secretly married before that.”

 

“Yeah,” Langa added, “they had a bet-“

 

“Don’t tell them about that, you slimes!”

 

Reki laughed. “But seriously, we’re happy for you guys!”

 

Langa nodded in agreement.

 

Miya huffed. “Speak for yourselves. That was gross.”

 

Kojiro smiled playfully. “What? This?” he asked before dramatically placing a kiss on Kaoru’s cheek.

 

Kaoru kicked him in the butt while Miya pretended to gag.

 

“Hey!” Kojiro yelped, fixing Kaoru with a playful glare.

 

Shadow shook his head. “Take it outside, you two,” he said jokingly.

 

Kojiro laughed, then shrugged. “Alright,” he said before grabbing Kaoru’s wrist and heading for the door, waving with his free hand. “See you guys next time.”

 

Kaoru blushed, but shook his head, letting Kojiro lead him outside.

They got a ride back to the top of the course, then kept hiking until they found a nice secluded area that overlooked sections of the track.

 

They sat on a large rock, leaning against each other, watching the races in comfortable silence.

 

Kaoru looked at Kojiro after they’d been sitting there a while, then carefully ran his thumb over Kojiro’s scar.

 

Kojiro shivered and Kaoru immediately stopped. 

 

“Is it still sore?”

 

Kojiro laughed a bit and carefully pulled Kaoru’s hair out of its ponytail before running his fingers through it. “No. It’s fine. You just surprised me.”

 

Kaoru hummed, resting his head against Kojiro’s shoulder as he continued brushing his thumb over the slightly raised skin.

 

Kaoru had finally stopped feeling a pit in his stomach every time he looked at it. But it still served as a reminder not to take any of this for granted.

 

“Kojiro.”

 

“Hm?”

 

“I love you.”

 

Kojiro wrapped both arms around him, pulling him close. “I love you too.”

 

Kaoru melted into him and let out a content sigh. “Dumb gorilla,” he muttered fondly.

 

Kojiro chuckled softly. “Wimpy four-eyes.”

 

“Feckless ape...”

 

“Prissy princess...”

 

“Sweetie.”

 

“Precious.”

 

Kaoru moved back just enough so they could glare at each other for a second, then they both started laughing. 

 

Kojiro kissed him and Kaoru kissed him back, following as Kojiro lay back on the rock.

 

Kaoru quickly lost track of the score for their little game, but it wasn’t the first time it had happened and it wouldn’t be the last. They’d just start it over whenever they were feeling competitive, so probably in the morning, at the latest. 

 

Kaoru just focused on the feeling of Kojiro’s arms around him, the hands on his back, in his hair, their kisses, which were slowly becoming more heated — and the fact that he felt safe. He felt loved. He wasn’t alone. And no matter what the future held, they would be okay, because they would face it together.

 

 

 

Notes:

Thanks for reading!